6 Ways Seniors Can Beat The Heat

By Author: Kevin Bush
Total Articles: 14
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Seniors can be especially sensitive to the heat, and with record temperatures being recorded all across the country, it's important to take certain steps in order to stay cool and safe. However, many people think that this means simply staying in the house all the time while it's hot out, but this can be detrimental to a senior's emotional well being. Instead, consider these 6 activities that are fun, help keep the mind sharp, are low cost and most importantly - out of the heat.*Indoor SwimmingWhen it's too hot to enjoy the water outside, indoor swimming can be an excellent alternative. Not only is swimming relaxing and entertaining, it's also a great way to exercise without putting a lot of stress on bones, joints and muscles.Swimming at an indoor pool can also be a good way to meet other people, as most public pools are part of larger overall recreational facilities. Groups and activities are often organized including specialized types of exercise and even games and races.*Dining OutEven if it's just for a cup of coffee, dining out is still one of the best ways that seniors can beat the heat. This option remains low cost and ...
... is a great way to stay active and to interact with other people in the community. In fact, many restaurants encourage patronage by seniors by offering senior citizen discounts that can sometimes be as much as 20%, depending on the restaurant.*Dollar Movies and MatineesDollar movies and matinees aren't always only a dollar, but in many cases they're pretty close. Escaping the heat inside a darkened, cozy movie theatre and getting lost in a good story is a great way to keep the imagination active and stay cool.*Galleries and MuseumsMany galleries and museums are free or very low cost, making them accessible as a regular part of activities during the summer. And because most galleries and museums feature valuable works of art and historical items, air conditioning is par for the course. However, you should always bring a sweater or cardigan, as it can get a little too cold for some people.*Public LibrariesPublic libraries are quiet, relaxed and generally air conditioned places where seniors can go to read, watch movies, conduct genealogical or historical research, or just sit and enjoy a magazine. In most cases all of these activities are free of charge, and with extended hours in many locations libraries can help seniors get out of the sun at any point throughout the day.There are a number of other ways that seniors can beat the heat this summer, but one of the most critical items needed in order for them to do so is support and encouragement. It's tempting to simply stay home during the long, hot days of summer, but this should be avoided. Healthy activities like the ones mentioned above not only help beat the heat, but they also help beat depression and isolation. So if you can't go out with your senior loved one often, at least encourage them to get out of the house on their own. But if you need help like in home care or other forms of senior care, be sure to call a professional agency.