If you are considering moving to a new climate for retirement, you will want to take all factors into consideration. Older adults often make less body heat because of a slower metabolism and less physical activity. When your body gets colder faster than it can make heat, your body temperature falls, and that can cause problems for just about anyone. Severe weather can also affect your mental and physical health. If you are still set on moving to a different climate, or remain in the extreme climate where you currently live, you may want to consider these insightful tips.
As we get older, our bodies start to change in ways we don’t expect. Suddenly, it can be difficult to manage those cold winters or hot summer days without feeling unusually uncomfortable. In fact, living in areas with extreme temperatures can lead to severe health risks for seniors. Find out how colder or warmer climates affect seniors with these helpful insights.
The Impact of Cold Climates on Seniors
One of the mistakes retirees make when relocating is not considering the climate in their new region. If you are moving to a colder environment in retirement, consider the health risks you may face. For example, just engaging in an activity which didn't bother you when you were younger, such as shoveling snow, might bring on a heart attack when you get older.
Increased Risk of Hypothermia
Aging reduces the body’s ability to regulate temperature. This means even mildly cold weather can impact your health and increase your risk of hypothermia. If you live in a cold climate, make sure you always dress in layers and properly insulate your home when temperatures start to drop. Do your best to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Joint Pain and Arthritis Flare-Ups
Colder temperatures tend to stiffen older bodies (as most of us already know). This could be dangerous and very uncomfortable if you experience joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or arthritis which makes it difficult for you to climb stairs, open jars or perform everyday tasks. To remedy and cope with arthritis pain and similar conditions, regularly exercise indoors with activities that boost flexibility and mobility (like yoga or tai chi). Many doctors repeat the phrase "motion is lotion." Move those joints so they don't become immobile.
Isolation and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
When shorter days and harsh weather arrive, going outside becomes more of a chore, and not a pleasant, leisure activity. Reducing time out in the sun can often lead to a lack of natural Vitamin D and social interaction. Maintain any social connections you have with relatives and friends to improve your mood and combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
The Effects of Warm Climates on Seniors
Just like colder climates, warmer climates can also affect seniors. For example, participating in certain activities such as golf or tennis can be difficult in the hot sun, and can even cause you to have heat exhaustion or a heat stroke. Learn more about the hazards hot temperatures could cause by reading on.
Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion
Seniors have a lower capacity to sense thirst, which can lead to lower fluid intake. By drinking enough water frequently and dressing lightly, you can mitigate the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration. It may be necessary for you to consciously track how much water you are drinking, and not rely on waiting until you are thirsty. Most people need at least six to eight glasses of water a day, and more if you are engaging in an activity which causes you to sweat heavily.
Skin Issues and Sun Exposure
With longer summer days, increased sun exposure in warm climates can lead to skin problems such as sunburn. If you don’t protect yourself, the sun could also lead to an elevated risk of skin cancer. Wear protective clothing and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from UV rays. While it is important to get outside every day, you may want to avoid direct sun exposure between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm in the heat of the summer.
Respiratory Issues From Humidity
Seniors diagnosed with asthma or other respiratory conditions could experience elevated health risks when living in humid conditions. Areas with high humidity levels are difficult and uncomfortable to breathe in. Install dehumidifiers in your home to promote clean indoor air quality in warmer regions.
As you prepare for your retirement move, remember these insights to protect your body and mind. Prioritize your well-being by taking these steps to lower the risk of health concerns in any climate. Give a lot of thought to the best place for you to spend your retirement years, so you can enjoy yourself to the fullest, with the least impact on your health.
Photo and article credit: Logical Positions
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