Senior Health Tips: Staying Cool This Summer!

While warmer weather does mean sunnier skies and more time spent outdoors, it also means taking extra care of your health. 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 we hit the high point of summer. Read on to find out more!

Tips for Senior Health in Hot Temperatures

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. Staying hydrated can significantly decrease your risk of heat stroke.

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.

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.

Turn off lights and appliances. Make sure you turn off lights in rooms that are not being used, and during the day keep only the necessary lights on, and unplug appliances that produce heat just by being plugged in, such as, desktop computers, laptop computers, televisions, DVD players and VCRs. There are other items that may not heat up your home, but will add to your electric bills by keeping them plugged in; Stereos and radios, coffeemakers, lamps, toasters, iPods and electronic gadgets, so make sure you unplug what you can when you are not using these items.

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. It is important to not only wear sunblock, and make sure you are getting enough SPF to block the harmful rays, but wear a hat and long sleeves when you can to help save your skin from the harmful UV rays.

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. Below is a diagram to help you understand the difference between a sun and a heat stroke.

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