Senior Health Tips: Staying Cool This Summer!

Living in California we are used to the heat and high temperatures, but we still need to remember to hydrate! Lack of water is the number one trigger of daytime fatigue. As we age, the balance between our need for water and our thirst for water shifts. In fact, the less water an older person drinks, the less thirsty they become, leaving them open to the risk of serious dehydration and other complications. Seniors are at especially high risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and so it is important to learn how to take care of yourself as summer draws nearer. Read on to find out more!

Symptoms of dehydration:

1. Confusion
2. Chronic fatigue and lethargy
3. Drowsiness
4. Labored speech
5. Dry mouth
6. Sunken eyeballs
7. Unable to urinate or pass only small amounts of dark or deep yellow urine

Tips for Senior Health in Hot Temperatures

1. Stay hydrated. If you are going to be outdoors for any period of time when the weather is hot, be sure to drink plenty of water, for those who get tired of water you can mix it up with some type of flavoring and you can even try a healthy popsicle, by taking fruits and blending them with yogurt or ice and freezing them. Staying hydrated can significantly decrease your risk of heat stroke. If you are looking for alternatives to water, think about fruits and vegetables high in water, such as, watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, grapefruit, spinach, cantaloupe, and radishes.  Increasing your fruit and vegetable consumption is a healthy way to help keep your diet hydrated. Having a refreshing summer slaw with dinner will help to hydrate your loved ones and offer them a nutrition side dish, click the link to see a great recipe! http://www.health.com/health/recipe/0,,50400000122270,00.html
2. Stick to natural fibers. When it comes to your summer wardrobe, fabrics that breathe should be your go-to. Cotton and other natural fibers can help keep you cool both indoors and out.
3. Keep your home cool. The outdoors is not the only location that will be affected by the heat; your home can easily heat up on hot days and reach unsafe temperatures. Use your air conditioning or run fans throughout your home to keep things cool and healthy.
4. Wear sunblock outdoors. High temperatures and bright sunlight go hand-in-hand, so if you are going to be outdoors, be sure to protect your skin from burning and damage with sunblock.
5. Know the signs of heat stroke. To maintain the best senior health possible, you should also know what to do if you experience any of the symptoms of heat stroke, including headache, nausea, dizziness, and rapid pulse. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact help immediately.

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