[Seniors] 3 steps to BEAT blazing summer heat

Folks, right now most of the U.S. feels like an OVEN!

Many parts have been hit with scorching, triple-digit temperatures which can lead to dangerous—and even DEADLY—conditions…

Especially for SENIORS!

But even if you live somewhere that hasn’t yet experienced a heat wave, you should still take precautions to keep yourself safe.

While you can’t control the temperature outside, there’s plenty you can do to keep your body cool, hydrated, and safe from heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke that could land you in the hospital.

Here are three, practical steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and cool.

No. 1: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

I know this sounds like common sense, but the best way to keep yourself safe during extreme temperatures is to drink plenty of water.

But this can be problematic for older adults, as your sense of thirst tends to decline with age. This means you may not ‘feel’ thirsty, but your body needs water. When this happens, it can lead to dehydration, which can cause heat-related illnesses.

When it’s hot outside, drinking a tall glass of water every hour will ensure your body is adequately hydrated (even if you don’t feel thirsty).

No. 2: Stay inside (or find shade)

During intense heat, staying indoors (especially with air conditioning) is a great way to stay safe. This ensures your body’s core temperature stays nice and cool.

If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, you can also sit in a room with a ceiling fan, or even a box fan.

If you do need to go outside, only do so early in the morning or close to sunset when temperatures are at their lowest.

And if you do go outside, it’s best to stick to areas with shade… like under a tree, or even a patio umbrella.

No. 3: Ditch the layers

This goes without saying, but be sure not to wear extra layers of clothes on hot days.

Consider wearing lightweight clothes like short-sleeve shirts or shorts… and avoid clothes that are black as darker clothes tend to absorb heat.

If you’re worried about getting too much sun, wearing a large-brimmed hat is a great way to stay cool without exposing your skin to UV rays.

To staying cool and safe,

Sarah Reagan

Sources:

Associated Press. “Excessive heat warnings remain in many areas of U.S. through Monday.” https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/03/excessive-heat-warnings-remain-in-many-areas-of-us-through-monday.html

Shammash, Naomi. “Tips to Avoid Heat Illness Amid Record US Heat Wave.” https://www.medscape.com/s/viewarticle/954906