Kim Ousley
Summer is about experiences. Whether you choose to swim, kayak, fish, float in a pool, or simply relax lakeside with friends, recreation doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. Success isn’t measured by how far you swim or how adventurous the activity is. It’s measured by participation, enjoyment, and the memories you create.
The key is practicing in a safe environment and understanding that balance and buoyancy may feel different than you’re used to. Before heading out, think about the environment around you. Is the pool deck slippery? Are there uneven entries? Is it crowded? How much extra energy will your day require?
A little preparation can make a big difference, especially at the beach. Deep sand, hot surfaces, long walks, and saltwater exposure can all present unique challenges for amputees. Pack extra prosthetic socks, towels, sunscreen, water bottles, skin wipes, prosthetic cleaning supplies, a waterproof phone pouch, a dry bag, a change of clothes, and a small first aid kit so you’re ready for whatever the day brings.
If fishing or spending time at a lake is more your style, many state parks now offer accessible docks, trails, and recreation areas. Call ahead or check the park’s website before your trip. If the temperatures climb too high, consider visiting a nature center, museum, aquarium, botanical garden, or zoo. Many offer excellent accessibility while providing a welcome break from the summer heat.
Outdoor festivals, flea markets, and concerts can also be great ways to enjoy the season. Most are affordable, but it’s worth checking ahead for accessibility, parking, steep hills, or uneven terrain before you go.
Summer Safety with Diabetes
For amputees living with diabetes, hot weather requires a little extra attention.
High temperatures can increase fluid loss through sweating, making dehydration happen more quickly. Dehydration can also contribute to elevated blood glucose levels, creating a cycle that’s harder to manage.
Watch for signs of dehydration, including increased thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and dark-colored urine.
Many people are surprised to learn that heat can also cause blood sugar to fluctuate unexpectedly. It may increase insulin absorption, affect how medications work, change appetite, and increase the risk of both high and low blood sugar episodes. Checking your blood sugar more frequently during hot weather can help you stay ahead of these changes.
Don’t forget to inspect both your feet and your residual limb regularly. Look for redness, blisters, skin breakdown, areas of increased pressure, or signs of infection. Insulin and some medications are also sensitive to heat, so store them in a cooler and never leave them inside a hot vehicle.
Living with diabetes and limb loss often means thinking one step ahead. Summer doesn’t have to be something you avoid—it simply calls for a little extra planning so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the season.
