(3 Minute Read)
As you age and your body changes, your wellness needs also change. However, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the summer fun. When spending time with friends and family this summer, take some time to check in on yourself and make sure you follow these safe habits.
Hydrate.
Seniors are the most susceptible to dehydration of any age group because our fluid reserves shrink with age. When spending time outside this summer, drink plenty of water. You might also consider drinking sports beverages that contain sodium and electrolytes as your body will be losing these valuable nutrients at high rates. If you’re trying to watch your sugar intake, you can even buy powdered mixes or dissolvable tablets to add electrolytes of your own to regular water.
Keep your cool.
Take breaks from the heat to rest in air conditioned spaces. Seniors are more prone to heat stroke because their bodies take much longer to adjust to changes in temperature. If you’re out exploring a new city or taking a walk, stop into a cool space like a gift shop or deli to cool down and drink water. Be sure to take a long enough break, at least 20 minutes, because going continually from heat to air conditioning can make you sick. It’s also helpful to carry your own shade in the form of an umbrella or even a wide brimmed hat.
Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Everyone should wear sunscreen year-round, and especially in the summer. But, because our skin becomes more delicate with age, it’s even more important for seniors to use. It’s best to stick with FDA approved ingredients. SPF 30 is plenty for everyday use, but SPF 50 is recommended for longer stints outdoors. Broad spectrum sunscreen is great to use because it protects against both UVA and UVB light. However, be sure to apply enough and reapply every 2-3 hours or you won’t get the benefits.
Taking care of yourself in the summer means you get to spend more time enjoying beautiful weather with friends and family. And sometimes, making the most of your summer is easier with extra money for family trips or work around the house. If you still maintain a life insurance policy you no longer need, did you know you can sell all or a portion of that policy for more than the cash surrender value? This is called a life settlement, or viatical. Contact Life Settlement Advisors today to learn more about the life settlement process or see if you pre-qualify.
Case Study: Robert and Jeanine have been retired for 15 years and have dreamed of traveling to France to see the French Riviera while they still had their health. Jeanine discovered they could sell their life insurance for $76,000 to pay for the trip and have funds leftover to supplement their retirement.
Download our resource, How to Plan for Healthcare Costs in Retirement, for more information on common age-related health issues, their costs, and how you can pay for the care you need.
