Old woman with a sun umbrella walking on a street.

Hot Weather Walking Tips for Older Adults

June 17, 2024 | Lifestyle | By: Anderson Home Health Supplies

Old woman with a sun umbrella walking on a street.Walking is a great way for seniors to stay active and maintain their physical fitness. However, walking outdoors can also pose health and safety risks, especially in hot weather. Seniors should take special precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and other complications that may arise from walking in the summer heat. Read on for some quick safety tips from Anderson Home Health Supplies, and please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Anderson Home Health Supplies is your destination for medical products in Tampa, FL.

Time Your Walks Carefully

On hot summer days, early morning and late evening are the best times to walk. Try to avoid walking in the afternoon, when temperatures are usually at their highest. If you must walk during the hottest hours of the day, take extra precautions to stay safe, such as drinking plenty of water, staying in the shade, and taking frequent breaks.

Dress for the Weather

The best clothes for walking in hot weather are light, airy, and made with breathable materials, such as cotton. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics that trap moisture and dark colors that absorb heat. We also recommend wearing a sun hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.

Stay Hydrated

Always bring a water bottle or sports drink with you on summer walks, and remember to drink from it! Staying hydrated is key to avoiding heat exhaustion.

Take It Slow

Overexertion can easily lead to heat exhaustion, so make sure to pace yourself when walking in the summer heat. On really hot days, limit your walking time and take more frequent breaks.

Consider Walking Indoors

When the temperature soars above your tolerance level, you can still go walking – just head to an indoor, air-conditioned space instead. If there are no indoor walking tracks in your area, consider walking around your local shopping mall or community center. You can also sign up at your local gym and enjoy a long walk on a treadmill in air-conditioned comfort.

We hope these tips help you stay safe this summer! If you need more advice on senior wellness, we invite you to consult the team here at Anderson Home Health Supplies. We proudly serve Tampa, FL, and our neighbors from Brandon, Dunedin, and Oldsmar.