These days, it often feels like the summer temperatures in Upstate New York just keep on rising. For seniors, it’s important to stay active all year round, even when it’s hot out. However, maintaining your routine comes second to practicing sun safety. Here are some helpful ways to ensure you’re dressed to protect, while participating in outdoor activities this summer.
UPF-Rated Clothing
First, the basics. UPF is the rating used to judge how much protection fabric offers from ultraviolet light. UPF ratings of 50 let in 1/50 of UV radiation, or 2%. All clothing offers some degree of UPF coverage, but most clothing isn’t tested and rated. Generally, clothing that offers better coverage is loose-fitting, synthetic fabrics with tighter weaves, and darker in color.
These days, there are lots of companies offering clothing that protects your skin while remaining lightweight and breathable, so that it’s easy to wear in the summer months. Garments made for hiking, swimming, or other outdoor activities are your best bet for offering protection and wearability. Check out this article for the best UPF-rated clothing according to experts.
Hats With a Wide Brim
Not all hats are created equal when it comes to sun protection. For example, your trusty old baseball cap is better than nothing, but often doesn’t protect your ears or neck from UV exposure. Instead, opt for a hat with at least a 3-inch-wide brim to ensure you’re covered more completely. The best hat is one you’ll actually wear, so making sure it’s comfortable should be a priority. Look for breathable and ventilated fabrics to help regulate your temperature and avoid overheating. Additionally, it’s best to avoid straw hats, as the holes often let in too much light.
Sunglasses
The eyes are one part of the body often overlooked when it comes to UV protection. According to the NIH, sun exposure can cause cataracts, “Surfer’s Eye,” certain cancers, and many other conditions. Sunglasses can be more than just a fashionable accessory–they help protect the eye tissue, which is more easily penetrated by UV light than visible light. When you’re outdoors, ensure you’re sporting sunglasses that are marked as having a UV400 rating for the most protection.
Wearable Gadgets
With temperatures rising in recent years, we’re starting to see more accessories that prioritize comfort and help you stay cool in hot weather. If you’re someone who likes to be Neck fans, rest conveniently on your shoulders and offer a gentle breeze to your head and neck. Cooling tubes are basically ice packs shaped so that you can wear them around key points, such as your neck or wrists, to optimize the cooling effect. Cooling vests are made to be wet and work to keep the temperature in your torso regulated. These accessories and more can help you remain cool and enjoy your favorite outdoor activities, even when the temperatures rise!
Even with these tools, it’s important to stay smart this summer. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and other related illnesses, stay hydrated, and take shady breaks when you’re outdoors in the heat. Eddy Senior Living has activities all year long that ensure our community members can stay active and in good health. Get in touch to learn more about our communities and schedule a tour today!