by Dana Rubin‑Winkelman, MSW, CAPSW, Social Worker
August often brings some of the hottest days of the year. While summer offers beautiful opportunities to enjoy gardens, outdoor concerts, neighborhood festivals, and time with family, it also reminds us to take extra care of ourselves—especially when temperatures rise.
One of the simplest ways to support both our bodies and our brains is to stay well hydrated. As we age, our sense of thirst can naturally decrease, making it easier to become dehydrated without realizing it. Even mild dehydration can affect energy, mood, concentration, balance, and overall well-being.
The good news is that small, everyday habits can make a meaningful difference. Keeping water nearby, enjoying water-rich foods, taking breaks in the shade, and paying attention to how we feel can help us stay healthy and continue enjoying all that summer has to offer.
This month, I invite you to think of hydration as one simple way to care for your brain, your body, and overall wellness. By making thoughtful choices each day, we can stay safe in the summer heat while continuing to find joy in the simple moments around us. May this month bring you good health, moments of laughter, and the simple blessing of sharing time with those you love.
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” — Jim Rohn
1. Spark Your Summer- Stay Cool, Stay Safe: Summer is a wonderful time to be outdoors, but it is important to be mindful when temperatures climb. Older adults can be more vulnerable to heat-related illness because our bodies may not cool themselves as efficiently as they once did. Certain medications, heart conditions, and memory changes can also increase the risk of dehydration and overheating.
A few simple reminders can help keep you safe:
- Drink fluids regularly throughout the day—even before you feel thirsty.
- Plan outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, such as mornings or evenings.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors.
- Use sunscreen and seek shade whenever possible.
- Take breaks often and listen to your body.
Please note: Some individuals may need to monitor or limit their fluid intake because of certain medications or underlying health conditions. If you have been advised to restrict fluids or are unsure how much you should drink, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
“The greatest wealth is health.” — Virgil
2. August Wellness Tip: Hydration is Brain Health: Did you know that the brain is largely made up of water? Staying properly hydrated helps support many important functions, including circulation, temperature regulation, and the delivery of nutrients throughout the body. Even mild dehydration can make it more difficult to concentrate, remember information, solve problems, and maintain energy throughout the day.
For individuals living with memory changes or dementia, staying hydrated is especially important. Dehydration may contribute to increased confusion or fatigue and can sometimes make existing symptoms feel worse.
Because our sense of thirst may become less noticeable as we age, it can help to create simple routines around drinking fluids. Try keeping a reusable water bottle or glass of water within reach, drinking water with meals and snacks, and starting your morning with a glass of water.
“Thousands have lived without love, not one without water.” — W. H. Auden
3. Spark Some August Adventures: Summer is a wonderful reminder that meaningful moments don’t have to be expensive or elaborate. Sometimes the best memories come from simply slowing down and enjoying the people around us.
- Visit a local farmers market: Milwaukee’s outdoor farmers market season is in full swing, with markets taking place throughout the city and surrounding neighborhoods. Stroll, explore, and enjoy the sights and sounds of summer. Find a Milwaukee farmers market.
- Take an early morning walk through a park or garden: Several outstanding parks and gardens offer accessible paths that are perfect for a leisurely walk. We are fortunate to have Lakeshore State Park, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and an accessible 1.7-mile loop.
- Enjoy an evening outdoor concert or community event: Check out OnMilwaukee’s guide to free summer music series and find a concert or event to enjoy.
- Share an ice cream outing with a friend or family member.
- Sit outside with a favorite book and enjoy the fresh air: Not sure what to read this summer? Check out Barnes & Noble’s summer reading list.
Sometimes the brightest sparks come from the simplest experiences—a conversation, a shared laugh, a beautiful view, or a quiet moment of gratitude.
“Rest is not idleness…to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day…is by no means a waste of time.” — John Lubbock
4. Spark the Mind: Keeping our minds active and curious helps support brain health at every age. Just like our muscles, our brains benefit from regular exercise. This month, try these refreshing August-inspired activities:
- Name as many fruits and vegetables as you can in one minute.
- Think of three favorite summer memories and share one detail that makes each memory special.
- Make a list of things that help you feel refreshed and energized.
5.Spark Your Brain with Music- Music has a remarkable ability to lift our spirits, reduce stress, and awaken treasured memories. Familiar melodies can evoke emotions and memories, making music one of the most enjoyable ways to engage the brain. Consider creating your own “Summer Memories Playlist” filled with songs that remind you of vacations, family celebrations, camp, or favorite moments from years gone by. What songs would you include?
- “Summer Breeze” by Seals & Crofts- A peaceful song that captures the simple comfort of a relaxing summer day. Click here for the 3+ minute musical video.
- “Sunshine on My Shoulders ” by John Denver- A gentle reminder to appreciate nature’s simple gifts. Click here for the 5-minute audio.
- “Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters- A cheerful summer classic that recalls warm evenings, ocean breezes, and joyful memories made with family and friends. Click here for the 2+ minute audio:
6. Strength Through Community: We recognize that many in our community continue to carry concerns about Israel and the rise in antisemitism around the world. While we may not always have answers, we can continue to choose compassion over fear, understanding over division, and kindness over hate. By supporting one another, sharing our stories, and strengthening our community, we help keep the light of hope burning—for ourselves and for future generations.
“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” — Robert Brault
As August reminds us to slow down and enjoy the final weeks of summer, I hope you take time to care for yourself with the same kindness you offer to others. A cool glass of water, a favorite song, a walk with a friend, or a quiet moment outdoors can nourish both body and spirit. These simple moments remind us that wellness is not only about caring for our bodies, but also about nurturing the connections and experiences that bring meaning to our lives.
If you have questions about healthy aging, memory changes, caregiving, or community resources, please feel free to reach out. I would be happy to connect. You can find me at DRubin-Winkelman@ovation.org.
Until next month, stay cool, stay connected, stay hydrated, and continue finding—and sharing—sparks of light wherever you go.
Warmly,
Dana
Content may not be copied or reproduced in any form or by any means without Ovation Communities’ prior written consent, and with express attribution to Ovation Communities. Copyright infringement is a violation of federal law subject to criminal and civil penalties. Some content is prepared with editorial assistance.
