{"id":15437,"date":"2025-07-14T08:00:33","date_gmt":"2025-07-14T12:00:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/okdiario.com\/metabolic\/en\/?p=15437"},"modified":"2026-01-27T05:35:05","modified_gmt":"2026-01-27T10:35:05","slug":"neither-floaties-nor-pool-noodles-what-seniors-over-60-should-do-to-stay-safe-in-the-water-this-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/okdiario.com\/metabolic\/en\/health\/neither-floaties-nor-pool-noodles-what-seniors-over-60-should-do-to-stay-safe-in-the-water-this-summer-15437\/","title":{"rendered":"Neither floaties nor pool noodles: what seniors over 60 should do to stay safe in the water this summer"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you’re over 60, some safety tips are obvious: don’t swim alone, wear sunscreen, and bring a water bottle<\/strong><\/a>. But one of the most overlooked rules has nothing to do with flotation devices or swimming technique: it’s what you drink before you swim<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Drinking alcohol before getting in the pool can sharply increase the risk of accidents<\/strong>, especially for older adults. Here, we’ll explain why skipping that cold beer or glass of wine before swimming could protect you or your loved ones. We’ll also go over other water safety tips every senior should know before heading to the beach, river, or pool this summer. Let’s begin.<\/p>\n

Why seniors should avoid alcohol before heading to the pool<\/h2>\n

The CDC reports an average of 11 accidental drownings every day in the U.S. For seniors, many of these are preventable, and one key factor is alcohol. Even a single drink can dull the senses, slow reaction time, and reduce motor control<\/strong>, all of which increase the chance of a slip, a fall, or trouble staying afloat.<\/p>\n

As we age, the effects of alcohol hit harder. It can lower body temperature quickly, impair judgment, and interact with medications<\/strong>. Combined with water activity, this is a serious safety risk. Seniors may not realize how much coordination and alertness swimming demands. Even in shallow pools, losing balance or slipping can lead to serious injury or worse.<\/p>\n

Family members play a key role here. If you’re spending time with senior parents, relatives, or friends, keep an eye on what they’re drinking before water activities<\/strong>. Encourage hydration<\/strong><\/a> and not alcohol. A reminder at the right time can prevent a tragedy.<\/p>\n

Other ways seniors can stay safe in the water this summer<\/h2>\n

Not drinking before swimming is a good start, but it shouldn’t be the only precaution. Staying safe means taking a few extra steps. Here’s what else seniors should do:<\/p>\n