Category Archives: Healthy Living

Arizona summer has its own rules. A walk that feels pleasant in March can feel completely different in July. For seniors, that matters.

The best time to exercise outside is usually early morning, ideally around sunrise and before the day has had a chance to heat up. In many cases, that means getting out before 8 a.m. On especially hot days, even earlier may be better.

Morning has a few advantages. The sun is lower. The air is usually cooler. Sidewalks and parking lots have not been baking for hours. There is also something nice about starting the day with a short walk, a little fresh air, and the feeling that you have already done something good for yourself.

Afternoon Is Usually Not Worth The Risk

By afternoon, Arizona heat can become more than uncomfortable. It can be dangerous.

This is especially true for older adults. The body may not cool itself as quickly as it used to. Some medications can also make heat harder to handle. Add bright sun, hot pavement, and dry air, and even a simple walk can take more out of a person than expected.

That does not mean seniors should be afraid of moving. It just means summer is the time to be sensible. A walk at 2 p.m. in August is not a test of character. It is usually just a bad bargain.

Evening Can Be Tricky

Evening sounds like the obvious second choice, and sometimes it works. The sun is lower, the glare is not as harsh, and there may be more shade.

The problem is that Arizona holds heat. Pavement, walls, sidewalks, and patios can keep radiating warmth long after sunset. So while evening may feel better than midafternoon, it may still be too hot for safe outdoor exercise.

If evening is the only time that works, keep it short and easy. Choose a shaded route, carry water, and avoid pushing the pace. Walking with a friend is also wise, and frankly more pleasant.

Keep The Goal Simple

Summer exercise does not have to mean a long walk or a big workout. For many seniors, ten careful minutes outside in the morning may be enough. Light stretching, a stroll through the courtyard, gentle gardening, or a slow walk to enjoy the sunrise can all count.

The goal is not to come back exhausted. The goal is to keep moving, stay steady, and feel better afterward.

A few simple habits help too. Wear loose, light clothing. Use sunscreen. Bring water. Avoid going out hungry or dehydrated. Pay attention to dizziness, weakness, confusion, nausea, headache, or unusual fatigue. Those are signs to stop and get inside.

Some Days Belong Indoors

There will be days when the safest outdoor exercise is no outdoor exercise at all. That is not giving up. That is good judgment.

Indoor walking, chair exercises, stretching, balance work, and light fitness classes can help seniors stay active.

Chaparral Winds Supports Safe, Active Senior Living

At Chaparral Winds, staying active is important, but so is staying safe. Arizona summers call for smart routines, cooler spaces, and support that helps seniors enjoy life.

If you or a loved one is exploring senior living in Surprise, contact Chaparral Winds today to schedule a tour and learn more about independent living, assisted living, and memory care options.

References

Chaparral Winds, Retirement Living In Surprise, AZ
https://chaparralwinds.com/

Chaparral Winds, Independent Living
https://chaparralwinds.com/independent-living-phoenix.htm

Arizona Department Of Health Services, Heat Safety
https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/extreme-weather/heat-safety/index.php

National Institute On Aging, Hot Weather Safety For Older Adults
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/hot-weather-safety-older-adults

Arizona Department Of Economic Security, Older Adults And Heat Illness
https://des.az.gov/featured-story/older-adults-and-heat-illness

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful, assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

People in the US are living longer than ever, and the number of aging adults in the populous are increasing.

As we get older, our bodies and mental faculties change. With a healthy lifestyle, it can help you address those changes. It may also hinder some health issues and help you to make the most of your life.

A healthy lifestyle for older adults includes:

Healthy Diet

As you get older, your dietary requirements may change. You may require fewer calories; however, you still need plenty of nutrients. A healthy diet includes

• Eating foods that give you plenty of nutrients without a lot of added calories. This includes vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean meats, reduced-fat dairy, seeds, and nuts.
• Avoiding empty calories, like foods such chips, baked goods, candy, soda, and alcohol
• Eating foods that are low in fat and cholesterol
• Drinking plenty of liquids, to avoid getting dehydrated

Consistent Physical Activity

Being active physically could help you keep a healthy weight and avoid chronic health issues. If you haven’t been active, you can begin slowly and work up to your objective. How much exercise you require is subject to your age and health. Speak with your health care provider concerning what is appropriate for you.

Maintaining A Healthy Weight

Being either under-weight or over-weight can lead to health issues. Speak with your health care professional concerning what a healthy weight for you might be. Healthy eating and exercising can help you accomplish that weight.

Keeping Your Mental State Active

Plenty of activities can keep your mental state active and improve your memory, comprising learning new abilities, reading, and participating in games.

Making Your Mental Health A Precedence

Work on improving your mental health, for instance by participating in mediation, relaxation methods, or gratitude. Realize the warning signs of an issue and reach out for help if you are having a hard time.

Engaging In Activities That You Enjoy Doing

Those that are involved in hobbies and social and leisure activities could be at lower risk for some health issues. Participating in things that you enjoy could help you experience joy and strengthen your thinking capabilities.

Playing An Active Part Concerning Your Health Care

Be sure that you get routine checkups and the health screenings that you require. You should know kind of medications you are taking, why you require them, and how to take them correctly.

Not Smoking

If you are a smoker, STOP. Quitting is one of the most vital things that you can do concerning your health. It can decrease your risk of several different kinds of cancer, particular lung diseases, and cardiovascular disease.

Taking Steps for Fall Prevention

The elderly have a higher risk of “taking a tumble”. They are additionally more likely to fracture a bone if they fall. Getting routine eye exams, participating in regular physical activity, and making your house less risky can decrease your risk of falling.

Adhering to these tips can help you to stay healthy as you get older. Even if you have never done them previously, there is still time to begin taking care of your health. If you have questions concerning these lifestyle changes or need assistance figuring out how to make them, speak with your health care provider.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful, assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880