The summer is a great time to be active, but the harmful effects of hot weather can sneak up on you if you are not careful. This is particularly true for seniors. Seniors do not feel thirst as sharply as younger people, so they may not drink enough liquids. They may also be taking medications that decrease their ability to perspire. Since heat-related illnesses can be serious, taking precautions is important.
• Stay hydrated. Make a concerted effort to drink plenty of liquids, regardless of your activity level—and don’t wait until you are thirsty. Avoid liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar. They can actually make you lose more fluids. If your doctor limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink when the weather is hot.
• Stay indoors. When the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illnesses. Take a cold shower or bath, or turn on the air conditioning. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or the public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
• Stay comfortable. Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. If you must go out, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours, and try to rest often in shady areas.
In the summertime, staying cool means staying healthy. If you start to feel dizzy or weak, call your doctor immediately.
