As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, seniors may find themselves feeling more energetic and want to get out and about. However, along with the nicer weather come some health concerns that are specific to this time of year. At PeachTree Place Assisted Living Community, we want to share some spring health tips to help your loved one enjoy the lovely Utah flowers and weather while still staying safe.
5 Spring Health Issues For Seniors
- Sun Exposure
- Heat Exhaustion
- Dehydration
- Seasonal Allergies & Asthma
- Mood Changes
1) Senior Sun Exposure
When the weather starts becoming nicer, it’s tempting to spend more time out in the sun. However, seniors’ skin is thinner and more sensitive than the skin of young adults, and their eyes are more susceptible to sun damage as well. To prevent sunburns, skin cancer, cataracts, and macular degeneration, your loved one needs to wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses whenever they’re going to be outside for more than 10-15 minutes.
2) Heat Exhaustion Risks
Seniors are especially susceptible to heat exhaustion (or “heat stroke”), which can be deadly if it isn’t treated quickly enough. If your loved one experiences dizziness, lightheadedness, a throbbing headache, nausea, flushed skin, slurred speech, or confusion, it’s crucial to get them to a cool place and call 911 immediately.
3) What Out For Dehydration
As the weather gets warmer and people start spending more time outside, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Seniors may not feel as thirsty as they should, or they may forget to drink enough water, so it’s important to make sure they are getting enough fluids throughout the day.
4) Senior Asthma & Allergies
All of the pollen in the air can cause misery for seniors who suffer from allergies, and it can even trigger asthma attacks. If your loved one is experiencing symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, it’s crucial to bring this up with their healthcare providers to get the proper medication needed in order to feel better.
5) Seasonal Mood Changes
Some seniors struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which causes them to become depressed during certain times of the year. Although SAD often worsens in the winter and improves in the spring, the reverse can occasionally occur. For instance, an individual with mobility issues might feel more depressed during the spring when seeing others engaging in outdoor physical activities that they are no longer able to participate in. In any case, it’s better to ask how your loved one is feeling rather than assuming that the warmer weather and pretty flowers will automatically lift their spirits.
Assisted Living Senior Apartments In Utah
PeachTree Place Assisted Living Community is here to help your loved one enjoy the spring season as safely and independently as possible. Our caring and attentive staff can help with medication management, transportation, and mobility needs without restricting their freedom the way a nursing home would. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
