Summer is here, and with it so is hot and humid weather. While it is great to go outside and enjoy the outdoors, it is very important that senior citizens play it very safe, as the human body becomes more susceptible to dehydration and heat related illness as one ages.
- Hydrate: Older people are less able to conserve water and less aware of thirst, so drink water throughout the day to be safe, and avoid caffeine. Know the early signs of dehydration and heat stroke so you can catch it early.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen thirty minutes before going out, and make sure to re-apply every two hours. Keep a small bottle with you so you won’t forget as easily, and consider adding a reminder on your phone.
- Clothing: Wear light clothes from breathable fabrics like cotton. Cotton traps heat less and absorbs moisture well, and the lighter colors help reflect the sun. Sunglasses are also highly recommended to reduce eye strain and protect vision.
- Check Prescriptions: Some medication will make people more sensitive to the sun, while others may just be less effective during warmer months, especially if you don’t have air conditioning in your home where they are stored.
- Be Prepared: Never spend more than a couple of hours outside during the summer, and when going out have an emergency call list on hand.
- Air Conditioning: If you have one, always take advantage of it. Call an HVAC professional before during the spring to give it a tune up before the hot weather comes. If you don’t have one, on very hot days go to a public place, like a coffee shop or movie theater to keep cool.
The summer is a great time to be outside enjoying nature with family and friends. It is important to recognize the risk hot weather presents to your health and prepare yourself. There’s nothing worse than being stuck in a hospital during the summer, so do everything you can to protect yourself so you can enjoy your summer.
