We all need to stay safe from excessive heat and sun exposure during the hottest months, but for seniors, it’s crucial to keep from overheating. Those most at risk of dying from hyperthermia are people over 50. As we age, our sweat glands sometimes become less efficient, which keeps the body from cooling off quickly. Excessive heat can also exacerbate illnesses that reduce the ability of the heart, lungs and kidneys to work efficiently. Some medications can make people more heat-sensitive, too.
Staying cool doesn’t need to mean staying inside all day. However, when it’s sweltering, it’s usually best for older adults to be in an air-conditioned place. For most of the summer, though, your senior can enjoy the warm air, sunny skies and flowers in full bloom with these summer-safe products—plus a few just for summer fun!
The Columbia Bora Booney hat is for men and women and comes in various colors. Columbia’s Omni-Shade and Omni-Wick features block UVA and UVB rays, offering excellent protection from heat and sweat. The chin strap is fully adjustable to fit anyone.
This ultra-lightweight umbrella will protect your skin from 98% of the sun’s UV rays while keeping you cool during the hottest days. When folded, it’s only 11.5 inches long, so it’s easy to stick in a tote bag or purse. The Umenice one-touch opening system makes it easy for arthritic hands to open and close, and it comes in a variety of colors. Don’t let your older adult feel uncomfortable using an umbrella on a sunny day—it’s the best protection from the sun.
These Orthofeet sandals are made for comfort and come in regular and wide sizes. They’re made with removable orthotic insoles and soft, stretchy upper straps. Their padded foam base, non-slip cushioning sole, and unique, easy-to-use, two-way strap system make them the perfect sandal for anyone with foot pain due to diabetes or mobility challenges.
The Skechers Louden sandals will keep the older man you care for comfortable and cool. They’re available in regular and wide sizes and come in four colors. The hook-and-loop straps make it easy to get them on and off, and the lining is a soft material so men’s feet won’t get irritated.
Stay away from polyester and rayon and stick with natural fabrics in the summer to keep body temperatures down. These easy, pull-on linen pants are the perfect summer slacks. They’ll keep your senior cool—and the cropped style means she won’t trip on the hem. In addition, they come in a wide range of sizes – from small to 5X – depending on which color you choose.
This classic cotton Wrangler short-sleeve button-up shirt is just what the older man in your life needs to keep cool and look sharp all summer long. It comes in 14 different colors and patterns, so there are many options for even the pickiest man. Also, the classic shape means it won’t be too snug and will be easy to get on and off.
There’s no excuse for sunburned skin anymore, and Neutrogena’s SPF 70 sunscreen is as high in protection as you can find. Neutrogena’s gentle formula is safe for even the most sensitive skin, so slather it on your seniors to keep them safe from painful sunburn.
There’s no need to fumble around with regular glasses and sunglasses if your senior wants to sit outside with a book or crossword puzzle. These bifocal readers allow them to enjoy the sunshine and still be able to read. They also shield the eyes with UV400, 100% UVA and UVB protection.
Sometimes all the protection in the world can’t keep the heat away, and a cool breeze is the only way to make things more comfortable. A mini handheld fan is good to keep nearby to find relief from a stiflingly hot afternoon. It’s rechargeable, so you can plug it in each night to make sure it’s ready to go the next day. Keep a few of them handy in nightstands and end table drawers.
Adequate hydration is key when the weather is hot. It may be challenging to get your loved one to drink enough water, but a Hydro Flask can make it easier. These bottles keep drinks cool for hours, and with the addition of a straw lid, they can easily sip all day long. Some flasks can be large and cumbersome, but this one is just the right size and light enough for less nimble hands. In the wintertime, use the Hydro Flask for hot drinks instead.
Keep this fun bubble-making set on hand for when grandkids visit during summer vacations—or for a bit of fun anytime. Soap bubbles are a great way to get older adults and young children alike giggling and smiling. Making bubbles can be a fun, easy activity on a hot day.
Your senior can spend the afternoon at a park, at the beach or watching a local softball game and never get uncomfortable in this padded, oversized folding chair. There’s a cupholder for a soft drink or other beverage and a slot to put magazines, books or other items. This is also a good choice for an apartment patio because it can be folded up and put away to save space.
This one isn’t for the kids—use this inflatable wading pool to cool your senior’s feet, which will help cool the rest of their body, too. They may think it’s silly at first, but soon enough, they’ll feel the relief from the heat and maybe even splash their feet around a bit.
