Summer is a season full of fun beach trips, outdoor events, and plenty of exposure to the sun – for better or for worse. For many Americans over the age of 65, summer can bring extra health concerns and risks. Getting older has its perks—more wisdom, senior discounts, and hopefully retirement. But that doesn’t mean that it’s all fun and games.
May is Older American’s Month and at vybe urgent care, we’re here to offer support to all Philadelphians — young and old! From routine tests and physicals to medical advice and health tips, it’s our mission to help you live your healthiest life.
As summer approaches, here are some issues that commonly affect the older population, and helpful tips from our team on how to stay safe and happy in the city heat!
Aging affects a lot of things about your body, but did you know that your sweat glands shrink and become less sensitive with age? That makes elderly folks more susceptible to heatstroke because it affects their ability to recognize changes in their own body temperature.
Our advice? Dress appropriately for warm weather (light and loose clothing), avoid direct sunlight for long periods of time (shade is your friend), and stay hydrated! If you suspect that you or a family member has suffered from heat stroke, or feels out of sorts after spending too long in the sun stop in at any of our locations—we’re here to help you feel back to normal.
It’s no secret that as we age, our eyes and ears tend to be less sharp than they used to be. It’s also no secret that too much sun exposure can be harmful for your vision. With all the extra time spent outdoors when the weather is nice, it’s safe to say that extra UV rays are probably sneaking up on all of us.
For those who are trying to preserve their vision, it’s best to wear dark sunglasses and take a seat in the shade to save those precious peepers. If you’re having eye pain or you think your vision may be rapidly changing, pay us a visit and we can help you get to the bottom of it.
Human bodies are pretty smart—after all, they can sense when there’s a change in the weather, your joints especially. It’s common for seniors to suffer from arthritis, and the summer heat doesn’t help joint swelling or pain.
To avoid excess inflammation and pain, there are a few things you can do: hang out indoors, wear loose clothing, or spend a little time in a body of water if you can. Swimming can help to relieve the pressure on your joints and it’s a great way to cool off in the summer heat!
Did you know that 25% of Americans over the age of 65 have diabetes? And believe it or not, an increase in temperature and too much sun exposure can cause blood sugar levels to rise without you realizing it.
Monitoring your levels more closely in the summer months can help detect any problems or issues—and as we’ve been suggesting: shade and water always help! If you need to get your levels checked, you know where to find us — seven days a week.
Getting older is unavoidable, but it’s a lot easier when you take care of your body and listen to what it needs. Summer can be exhausting and downright uncomfortable, but it can also be a wonderful time to spend with family, friends, and enjoying the beauty of celebrations and nature.
We advise drinking plenty of water, spending time in shady areas or inside with air conditioning whenever possible, and of course the age-old summertime suggestion: always wear sunscreen! vybe is here for you all summer long, should you find yourself feeling faint, burnt out, or plain old sunburnt. Stay cool out there, folks!
FIND YOUR VYBE
