Summer Health Precautions + Tips

POSTED ON July 7, 2026

Summer provides opportunities to stay active, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors. By taking simple safety precautions, older adults can protect their health, maintain their independence, and enjoy some quality, fresh air.

Summer heat can become dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions. Protect yourself during periods of high temperatures by:

Drinking water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day (typically 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
Taking frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned buildings.
Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Applying sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and reapplying every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.
Never leaving children, older adults, or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes, as temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly.
Checking on older family members, neighbors, and those who live alone during heat waves.
Using fans to improve air circulation, but recognizing that fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are extremely high. Seek air-conditioned spaces such as libraries, community centers, or shopping malls if your home becomes too hot.
Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion, which include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, and cool, clammy skin. Move to a cool place, drink water, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
Calling 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke, including a body temperature above 103°F (39.4°C), confusion, loss of consciousness, hot or dry skin, seizures, or difficulty speaking. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
Reviewing your medications. Some medications increase sensitivity to heat or sunlight. Ask your healthcare provider if you should take extra precautions during hot weather.
Wearing protective gear. Always wear a helmet when biking or kayaking. Choose supportive, non-slip shoes and wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes outdoors.
Protecting yourself from insects. Use insect repellent to help prevent mosquito and tick bites. Avoid tall grass, check for ticks after spending time outdoors, and take extra precautions if you’re allergic to insect stings by carrying an up-to-date epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.