What Prince George Seniors Should Know About Heat, Hydration, and Staying Safe in the Summer

Senior Health and Wellbeing  |  July 9, 2025

Summer Heat

From picnics and barbecues to baseball games and festivals, summer often offers many chances to enjoy quality time with friends and family – all beneath the warm sunny skies. For many seniors, summer is an ideal opportunity to venture out, meet new people, and strengthen existing relationships. However, while the pleasant weather may be inviting, the extreme heat that accompanies the sun’s intense rays can pose serious risks. Individuals of all ages should take necessary precautions during the summer, but seniors must particularly protect themselves from the dangers of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration.

In this article, we will discuss why seniors are more vulnerable to the sun and examine strategies they can employ to lower their risk of these conditions, allowing them to enjoy a peaceful summer.

Heat stroke (also known as sun stroke) is the most severe form of heat-related illness and necessitates immediate medical care. During a heat stroke, an individual will experience a core body temperature exceeding 40º C (105 º F).

Changes as We Age

As we grow older, our bodies find it increasingly challenging to adapt to changing temperatures. For instance, our capacity to sweat – arguably our main mechanism for regulating heat – diminishes with age. Additional factors that affect heat sensitivity include reduced blood circulation, certain prescription medications (especially diuretics or those prescribed for hypertension), and being either overweight or underweight. All these elements can contribute to the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

One significant danger associated with warm weather is dehydration, which occurs when the loss of water or fluids exceeds the intake. Just as our ability to sweat diminishes with age, our bodies also struggle more to retain water as we grow older. Additionally, seniors often experience a reduced sense of thirst. If an elderly person depends only on their thirst to maintain hydration, their chances of becoming dehydrated can rise considerably. If dehydration is not addressed, it can result in an electrolyte imbalance, decreased blood volume, urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney failure, and potentially even death.

Tips for Safely Enjoying Summer in Prince George and Quesnel Area

As you might expect, the dangers are genuine and the repercussions can be quite severe when dealing with summer heat. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to understand that these conditions are not exclusive to seniors and certainly do not signify an unavoidable aspect of aging. Seniors can still have a fun and enjoyable summer by adhering to a few straightforward tips:

• Check the Forecast and Timing – First and foremost, it’s essential to know what to anticipate before heading outside. If the temperature is expected to exceed 30 degrees, it’s likely best to remain indoors. Even if it’s cooler, seniors should aim to avoid being outside when the sun’s ultraviolet rays are at their peak, which is typically between 10AM and 3PM. If they must be outdoors during these hours, it’s crucial to seek areas that provide shade or shelter from the sun.
• Dress Appropriately – The summer heat can feel particularly intense if you’re dressed in unsuitable clothing. The key is to wear garments that are lightweight, breathable, and light-colored. Loosely woven or ventilated hats can also assist in protecting the face from the sun’s rays. While not directly related to clothing, it’s essential for seniors to apply sunscreen when venturing outside, as extended sun exposure can lead to skin cancer.
• Stay Hydrated – Seniors who intend to spend extended periods outdoors should ensure they have sufficient water for the duration of their time outside. Throughout any given day, seniors should aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce cups of water, but they should increase their intake if they plan to be in warm weather. Most importantly, they should not wait until they feel thirsty to hydrate; instead, they should adhere to a drinking schedule or consistently take small sips. Sports drinks, which can help replenish sodium or potassium, can also be beneficial in reducing the risk of dehydration. Conversely, caffeine and alcoholic beverages should be avoided at all costs.
• Take a Break – When it comes to spending time with others during the summer, it’s common for us to push ourselves more than we usually would in order to soak up the sun. Seniors are certainly no exception, but they should be sure to take breaks often throughout the day. If they aren’t near their home, seniors can go to any public, air-conditioned building – whether it’s a shopping mall or a restaurant – to get away from the heat.

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