For older adults, summer usually means more time outdoors, and often, more time in the water. Pools, beaches, and lakes are great for staying active and cooling off, but they can also present serious risks. Avoiding swimming after eating, keeping away from alcohol, and relying on floaties for safety are important tips, but there is another precaution that often goes overlooked.

According to health and safety experts, one of the best ways for people over 65 to avoid drowning is to get out of the water right away if they feel tired or cold. This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent a serious situation from developing. Here, we’ll explain the relevance of this tip and walk through a few other safety reminders for seniors who plan to swim this summer.

Leave the water when you feel cold or tired

As people age, the body’s response to fatigue and cold becomes slower and less obvious. In the water, that matters a lot. It can make it harder to notice when you’re overexerting yourself or starting to feel the early signs of hypothermia. Muscle control, reaction time, and coordination all drop quickly with exhaustion or a lower body temperature, even if the water feels warm at first.

Pushing through those early warning signs can increase the risk of drowning, especially when swimming alone or far from shore. Leaving the water as soon as you feel even mildly chilled or fatigued can help prevent sudden weakness or confusion, which are major risk factors in drowning incidents. It’s a simple habit that gives your body a break before trouble starts.

Other ways seniors can stay safe when swimming this summer

Cold and fatigue aren’t the only risks in the water, and there are a few other habits that you should implement. These require just a bit of awareness and preparation.

Always swim with someone. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, having someone nearby can save your life if something goes wrong.
Choose beaches or pools with lifeguards on duty. Lifeguards provide an extra layer of safety and can help quickly if you need assistance.
Respect water conditions. Never swim when the red flag is up at the beach, and avoid unsupervised or restricted areas.
Don’t overestimate your strength. Tides, currents, or even just a long swim can wear you out faster than expected. Stick close to shore or pool edges.
Know your limits. If you’re not a confident swimmer, use a life jacket, even in shallow water or calm conditions.
Avoid alcohol before swimming. Alcohol affects balance, coordination, and reaction time.
Enter the water carefully. Never dive headfirst into unfamiliar or shallow areas.

The goal isn’t to avoid swimming, but to enjoy it safely. With a few adjustments, seniors can stay active in the water without taking unnecessary risks. The key is to listen to your body, know your limits, and stay aware of your surroundings. That way, the water will be a source of relaxation and fun, not danger.