Everyone should take special care to stay healthy and hydrated during the spring and summer months. Extreme heat and high humidity can cause overexertion, fluid loss and heat-related illnesses. Seniors especially must take special care as they are less likely than younger adults to sense and respond to change in temperature. If you have a medical condition and/or take medication, speak to your doctor about how the heat will affect your health and what precautions you should take to stay fit.
Here are some hot weather safety tips to help you beat the heat.
Be Aware
- Know the warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and what to do if you encounter them.
Safety Measures
- Stay hydrated. Don’t wait to feel thirsty, drink plenty of fluids.
- Stay in air-conditioned environments as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, seek air conditioned locations like public libraries and malls, or call your local health department for the closest cooling center.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light colored clothing.
- Apply sunscreen before going outside. Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible. Consider taking a parasol or lightweight umbrella with you to create your own shade or wearing a wide-brim hat to protect your head, face and neck.
- Don’t overexert yourself, rest often.
