Tips to Beat Summer Heat
After the winter cold and spring rains, summer lures us outside to enjoy its bright, blue skies, warm breezes, and hot sunny days. It can be easy to spend too much time in the sun and forget that hot summer days can also take a toll on the body, particularly for seniors and children. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, nearly 700 people die each year from often preventable heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
While enjoying your summer outdoor activities, it is important to be aware of signs of dehydration and other heat-related illnesses and conditions. Friends, family, and loved ones should check on seniors and children when summer temperatures rise. CareFocus Companion Services can also assist with monitoring and ensuring that the seniors and children under their care remain comfortable and protected, allowing everyone to enjoy the summer.
Below are several easy-to-follow tips from CareFocus Companion Services to help yourself or a loved one beat the heat this summer.
- Stay hydrated. Drink eight or more eight-ounce glasses of water or juice per day. Avoid caffeinated, sugary, and alcoholic beverages.
- Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, light-weight clothes made of natural, breathable fabrics like cotton. Light colors that reflect sun and heat will also help you or a loved one remain cool.
- Run errands or exercise in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
- It is important for people to protect their skin or eyes from sun damage. Wear a broad-brimmed hat, wraparound sunglasses with 99 percent ultra-violet (UV) absorption, and at least 30 SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
- Stay indoors during extreme heat. If indoor temperatures exceed 85 degrees, turn on the air conditioner or head for a cooling shelter, senior center, friend’s home, movie theater, mall, or library.
- Keep inside temperatures down. To cool rooms, keep blinds and curtains closed but windows open. Turn electric lights off or down.
- Stay cool. Take a cool bath or shower to lower body temperature.
- Avoid heavy meals or turning on the oven. Eat healthy foods like sandwiches, salads, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
- Have friends, family, loved ones, or your CareFocus home health care provider check on you throughout the day to ensure you are protected from the heat.
Please remember that these tips should not be used in place of medical advice from a doctor or other trusted healthcare provider. If you seek medical advice on how to combat summer heat, please speak to your healthcare provider.