Summer weather in Southern California is something most people look forward to, but it also comes with real risks, especially as we get older. The long sunny days, rising temperatures, and intense UV rays that make summer weather so inviting can also put added stress on the body in ways that are easy to overlook. At University Village Thousand Oaks, nestled in the heart of Ventura County, summer weather means opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, gather with neighbors, and soak in everything this region has to offer. But enjoying all of that safely takes a little preparation. Understanding how summer weather affects our bodies as we age, and knowing what to do about it, can make all the difference.
Why You Need to Prepare for Summer Weather as You Age
As we age, our bodies respond to heat and sun exposure differently than they used to. The Skin Cancer Foundation explains that as we get older, our skin loses fat and water content and becomes thinner, allowing UV light to penetrate more deeply (Norman, 2022). At the same time, the body’s natural ability to repair damaged DNA slows, which may allow abnormal cell growth to develop more easily. More than half of skin cancer-related deaths occur in people over 65, making sun protection a habit worth building at any age (Norman, 2022).
Heat Stroke and Other Heat-Related Illnesses
Beyond UV exposure, warmer summer temperatures can raise the risk of heat-related illness in older adults. Several factors may contribute to this, including:
- Dehydration from reduced water retention as the body ages
- Medications such as diuretics, sedatives, and blood pressure or heart medications
- Health conditions affecting the heart, lungs, or liver
Dehydration is a big piece of this puzzle. UCLA Health explains that as we age, the kidneys begin to function less efficiently, leading to more frequent bathroom trips and increased fluid loss (UCLA Health, 2025). We also lose muscle mass with age, and since muscles hold water, less muscle means less stored hydration. Up to 40 percent of adults over 65 experience chronic dehydration, which can lead to fatigue, confusion, and more serious health complications.
What We Can Control During Summer Weather
There isn’t much we can do to change how our bodies naturally age, or the medications we take to maintain our quality of life. What we can control is how we respond to summer weather with smart, consistent habits.
For UV protection, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin before heading outdoors, and reapplying every two hours or after sweating (American Academy of Dermatology, n.d.). A wide-brimmed hat adds coverage for the face, neck, and scalp. When possible, try to stay indoors or in the shade between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when UV rays are at their strongest.
How to Stay Hydrated
When it comes to hydration in summer weather, it is best to stay ahead of dehydration and drink fluids even if you are not feeling thirsty. A good rule of thumb is to drink a third of your body weight in fluid ounces. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim for about 50 fluid ounces of water daily, roughly three standard water bottles. If that feels like a lot, eating water-rich foods like watermelon, soups, and salads can help supplement your intake. Keeping a refillable water bottle with you throughout the day is one of the simplest habits you can build.
As helpful as it is to prevent dehydration before it starts, here are some signs to watch for if you think you may already be dehydrated:
- Muscle cramps
- Dark-colored urine
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Confusion
Enjoy Summer at University Village Thousand Oaks
At University Village Thousand Oaks, summer weather doesn’t have to mean staying inside. Our community offers shaded outdoor spaces, easy access to hydration, and staff available to help residents stay comfortable and safe all season long.
“We want every resident to make the most of summer by continuing to do the things they love in a healthy and supportive environment. By taking a few simple precautions, including drinking plenty of water, using sun protection, and listening to your body, you can enjoy all the season has to offer while staying safe and well.” — Jasmine Bairian, Resident Wellness Services Director
Whether you want to connect with a wellness professional to build a summer plan or simply enjoy Thousand Oaks from a shaded bench with a cold glass of water, we are here to support you.
If you would like to learn more about life in our community and how we support resident wellness year-round, click here to contact us.
References
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). How to apply sunscreen. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/how-to-apply-sunscreen
Norman, R. A. (2022, March 1). The sun keeps rising: Why seniors can’t skip UV protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation. https://www.skincancer.org/blog/the-sun-keeps-rising-why-seniors-cant-skip-uv-protection/
UCLA Health. (2025, May 1). Hydration and older adults: Why water matters more as you age. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/hydration-and-older-adults-why-water-matters-more-you-age
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does summer weather affect older adults differently than younger people?
Yes. As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature, retaining water, and repairing UV-related skin damage, which may increase the risk of heat illness and skin cancer.
What SPF should older adults use in the summer?
Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 or higher with broad-spectrum, water-resistant protection, reapplied every two hours when outdoors.
How much water should seniors drink in hot summer weather?
A good starting point is to drink about a third of your body weight in fluid ounces each day. Water-rich foods like watermelon, soups, and salads can also help keep you hydrated throughout the day.
What are the early signs of heat-related illness to watch for?
Muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, fatigue, dry mouth, dark urine, and confusion can all be early warning signs. When in doubt, get indoors, hydrate, and seek help.