Preparing For the Summer
Heat
(see
also summer travel safety tips)
- Senior adults are
affected by prolonged heat waves of over-90 degree
temperatures. Many blood pressure and heart disease
medications are diuretics and remove salt and fluid
from the body. Drink plenty of water, at least 8
glasses a day in hot weather to avoid dehydration
and heat-related illnesses.
- Be careful of drinks
with alcohol or caffeine in them. They actually
deplete the body of its water.
- Wear sunscreen when
outdoors. Make sure the SPF is at least 30-50 and
the time spent in the sun should be limited from 10
a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Try to do outdoor
activities morning or evenings hours.
- Eat smaller meals more
often. Avoid food high in proteins since they
increase metabolic heat.
- Wear loose fitting,
light colored clothing and a hat when in the sun.
- Check the ozone levels
daily in the newspaper or television weather.
- Be aware of symptoms
of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
- High body
temperature
- Red skin with no
sweating
- Rapid pulse
- Headache, nausea or
confusion
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safety tips
see
also winter safety tips
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