Summer Safety Tips for Seniors at Pomerelle Place in Burley, ID

Summertime in Burley, Idaho, brings beautiful sunshine, longer days, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. At Pomerelle Place, our residents love the chance to enjoy warm weather and community events, but with summer safety tips in place.

But with rising temperatures and stronger sun exposure, it's important to remember that seniors need to take a few extra precautions to stay safe and healthy during the summer season. In Burley, Idaho (halfway between Boise and Salt Lake City), the hot season lasts 3 months from June 13th to September 13th, and the average temperature can go up to 78 degrees Fahrenheit, Weather Spark reports.

Seniors may be more susceptible to heat exhaustion, sunburn, and other heat-related issues. Fortunately, with a few simple habits and a little planning, summer can be a safe, healthy, and enjoyable time for every resident at Pomerelle Place.

Here are some essential items regarding heat safety for seniors to keep in mind.

1. Stay Hydrated All Day

Hydration is one of the most important aspects of summer safety, especially for older adults. As we age, we become less sensitive to thirst, which makes it easier to become dehydrated without us realizing it.

Here's how to add hydration reminders to your day:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you're not thirsty.

• Choose fruit-infused water or herbal teas if plain water isn't appealing.

• Eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges.

• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body.

At Pomerelle Place, water stations and refreshing beverages are always available in common areas to help residents stay hydrated throughout the day.

2. Dress for the Weather

Wearing the right clothing makes a big difference in keeping cool and protecting the skin.

Here's the ideal summer attire:

• Light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen

• Wide-brimmed hats for sun protection

• UV-blocking sunglasses to protect eyes from harmful rays

Make sure clothing offers good coverage without overheating, and be sure to change if you become sweaty to avoid skin irritation.

3. Avoid Midday Heat

The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these hours, it's best to stay indoors or stick to shaded areas if heading outside.

Safe outdoor planning includes:

• Schedule walks or gardening in the early morning or evening

• Use umbrellas or find shaded spots when sitting outdoors

• Check weather forecasts for heat advisories or air quality alerts

Pomerelle Place offers comfortable indoor spaces and shaded patios so residents can enjoy the season without overexposure.

4. Protect Your Skin From Sunburn

Seniors' skin is more fragile and more vulnerable to UV damage. Even a short time in the sun without UV protection can lead to burns.

Here are some sun safety essentials:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher

• Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if sweating

• Don't forget to apply sunscreen to the ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of the feet

Staff at Pomerelle Place can help residents apply sunscreen if needed and offer reminders before outdoor activities.

5. Watch for Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Heat-related illness can come on quickly in seniors. It's important to recognize the early warning signs of heat exhaustion and act promptly.

Here are the warning signs:

• Dizziness or fainting

• Headache

• Nausea

• Rapid heartbeat

• Muscle cramps

• Excessive sweating or, in severe cases, lack of sweating

If any of these symptoms appear, move to a cool place, drink water, and inform a caregiver or staff member immediately.

6. Keep Living Spaces Cool

While it's tempting to open windows to enjoy the summer breeze, maintaining a cool indoor temperature is crucial for health.

Here are cooling tips for the indoors:

• Use fans and air conditioning as needed

• Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day

• Use light bedding at night

• Avoid using stoves or ovens during peak heat hours

At Pomerelle Place, our staff monitors indoor temperatures and ensures residents' rooms remain safe and comfortable all summer long.

7. Be Cautious With Medications

Some medications can increase sensitivity to sunlight or interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature.

Here's what to watch out for:

• Diuretics, which may increase dehydration risk

• Blood pressure medications

• Antihistamines or antidepressants

Residents should consult with their healthcare provider or staff to review how summer conditions may interact with their prescriptions.

8. Stay Social-but Safely

Summer is a wonderful time for socializing, whether through family visits, outdoor games, or community events. Staying connected supports emotional well-being, but it's important to do so safely. Consider these tips:

• Choose well-ventilated areas or shaded outdoor spaces

• Limit long outdoor gatherings during heat waves

• Take breaks indoors to cool off

Pomerelle Place hosts seasonal activities like ice cream socials, craft workshops, and game nights that provide a balance of fun and safety.

9. Eat Light and Nutritious Meals

Heavy meals can raise body temperature and leave seniors feeling sluggish in the heat. So consider doing the following:

• Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, and grilled lean proteins

• Eat smaller meals more frequently

• Avoid salty snacks that can contribute to dehydration

Our dining team at Pomerelle Place prepares seasonal menus designed to keep residents nourished and energized through the summer months.

10. Keep an Emergency Plan in Place

Even with precautions, heatwaves, power outages, or unexpected emergencies can happen. Here's what to include in your emergency plan:

• Emergency contact information

• Backup medications

• Water bottles and cool packs

• Knowledge of cooling shelters or resources in Burley

Pomerelle Place's team is trained to respond to any weather-related emergencies, keeping residents informed and safe at all times.

Summer Safety Tips: Follow Them Without Fail

Aging and summer risks are interrelated, but with a few smart habits and the support of our dedicated team at Pomerelle Place, seniors can stay safe, cool, and comfortable all summer long.

Wellness in assisted living is a priority at our community. Burley, Idaho, is filled with breathtaking natural sights and scenes, and has so many outdoor activities you can avail yourself of. You can enjoy all of this safely and healthily using our summer safety tips above.

Schedule a tour to see our community and all of its amenities for yourself.