Outdoor Health and Safety Tips from our Oregon Retirement Community

Get some sunshine in a safe and healthy way!

Enjoying the great outdoors can be a wonderful way to stay active and healthy, especially as we age into our golden years. Our Summerfield Estates Retirement Community highly encourages outdoor activities whenever the weather permits! In fact, we have a life enrichment director who regularly plans fun and engaging events outdoors, and we know how great getting into nature can be for your mental health. However, it’s important to follow some health and safety tips to ensure that your time outside is both enjoyable and safe. Your safety is our top priority.

Why Get Outside?

Spending time outdoors offers numerous health benefits, including improved mood, enhanced physical fitness, and even better sleep. The fresh air and natural light can have a positive impact on your mental health and overall well-being; it’s hard to be in a bad mood after basking in the sun! However, it’s crucial to take some precautions to make sure your outdoor activities are safe and comfortable.

Stay Hydrated and Protected

Our first suggestion for safety is to prioritize hydration and sun protection. This is essential when spending time outdoors for any length of time. Dehydration and sunburn can lead to serious health issues, so make sure to take the following steps whenever you plan to spend a day outside:

• Drink Plenty of Water: Always carry a water bottle with you and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to feel your best!
• Wear Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
• Use Protective Clothing: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Taking just a few extra precautions like these will go a long way in making sure your fun in the sun isn’t ruined or cut short!

Choose the Right Time and Place

Now you are hydrated and protected from the sun, it’s time to choose when and where you’ll be enjoying the outdoors. When it comes to location, we suggest an area with tree coverage or other shade so you have the option to cool off if needed. Additionally, the time of day you choose for outdoor activities can significantly impact your safety and comfort. Avoid the hottest part of the day and opt for cooler hours.The best times for outdoor activities are early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense. A good rule of thumb is to check the weather forecast before heading outside, so you’re never surprised by not-so-favorable weather conditions!

Engage in Safe Physical Activities

Once your time and location are set for your next outdoor adventure, our last suggestion is to carefully plan the types of activities you’ll be doing! Physical activity is important for maintaining health and mobility, but it’s important to choose activities that are safe and appropriate for your fitness level. Here are some you might want to try:

• Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be done almost anywhere! Choose smooth, flat paths to reduce the risk of falls.
• Gardening: Light gardening can be a relaxing and rewarding way to stay active. Be mindful of your posture and avoid heavy lifting.
• Group Exercises: Join group exercise classes or activities. These provide a social aspect along with physical benefits!

Spending time outdoors can greatly enhance your quality of life by providing physical, mental, and social benefits. By following these health and safety tips, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while staying safe and comfortable. Our Summerfield Estates Retirement Community has tons of fun outdoor activities planned every single week, and we’d love for you to join us sometime!

If you’d like more information about outdoor activities and safety tips, or if you’re interested in learning more about our community, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you thrive during your retirement!