Preventative Health Tactics For Summer

This summer at Keystone Villa Independent Living at Douglassville, you can expect to find posters, hydration stations and other modes of awareness surrounding the importance of hydration during the season.

With temperatures heating up, it’s a reminder of the importance of adequate hydration for all ages, particularly for those over age 50 given that dehydration can contribute to several negative health consequences.

Feel most optimal

Remembering to drink water throughout the day is an easy way to prevent you from getting sidetracked from having an enjoyable summer where you feel most optimal.

“Dehydration is a huge factor for this age group,” said Donna McDonald, lifestyle and leisure director at Keystone Villa. “Dehydration can really be a catalyst for numerous health issues, such as weakness, falls, confusion, dizziness, fatigue and more.”

Fall prevention and imbalance issues

When it comes to overall prevention, McDonald finds that those in the 50+ age group are most concerned about fall prevention and imbalance issues.

Exercises that target the core and other areas that aid in proper balance, are optimal for those concerned about maintaining their balance to avoid falls. (Pexels)

“At their age, one fall could be the start of major issues,” she said. ”We offer various exercise classes here for strength and balance.”

They also offer in-house therapy by Fox Rehab, which offers balance assessments and therapy for many of their residents. They also offer bi-weekly blood pressure clinics.

Various health topics

They book speakers who come in to discuss various health topics, such as fall prevention, keeping your heart healthy, pain management and holistic treatments.

All of Keystone Villa’s talks and speakers are open to the public and free of charge, so you don’t have to reside there in order to attend.

“We usually do a balance screening and presentation in July,” McDonald said.

The maintenance of walkers Is important to ensure it will work properly in helping you maintain your balance. (Pexels)

She also said that they offer a walker wash and maintenance event — some of many ways they address preventative health tactics to keep you on track.

More information

For more information on Keystone Villa at Douglassville: www.keystonevillaatdouglassville.com

AARP’s tips on how to stay cool and hydrated

In extreme heat, dehydration is a serious concern and can lead to worse illnesses like heat stroke. The National Academy of Medicine suggests that men drink about 15 and women 11 cups of water each day, but more should be consumed in hot weather.

Feeling thirsty is one major sign of dehydration, and the CDC recommends drinking throughout the day, especially when you aren’t necessarily thirsty.

Credit: www.aarp.org