As temperatures rise and you spend more time in the sun, safety precautions should be taken to avoid summer health problems. Seniors are at a greater risk for heat exhaustion, sun stroke, sun burns, skin cancer, and dehydration. Therefore, it is crucial to make your wellbeing a priority by taking the appropriate measures in order to mitigate these risks.
Follow These 4 Tips for a Safer Summer:
Stay Hydrated
Make sure to drink plenty of water, clear juices, and any other beverages that don’t contain alcohol, excessive sugar, or caffeine.
Wear Sunscreen & Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible. Stay in the shade or plan outdoor activities for the early morning or at dusk. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and loose light-colored clothing when possible. You should also wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen when going outside. Make sure it has an SPF of 15 or higher and apply it every two hours.
Relax in the Air Conditioning as Much as Possible
If you start to overheat, move inside to where it is cool, preferably in the air conditioning. If your living space doesn’t have air conditioning, consider going to a movie theater, mall, library, or other location that is air conditioned. You can also take a cool shower or bath, or put wet washcloths or towels on your neck, wrists, ankles, and underarms.
Watch for Signs of Heat-Related Summer Health Problems
Time is crucial if you start to demonstrate signs of a heat-related summer health problem. Know what symptoms to watch for so you can get help before it’s too late.
- Dehydration – Muscle weakness and cramps, headaches, dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, and loss of consciousness.
- Heat stroke – Red, hot, and dry skin, a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or more, a fast pulse, headaches, nausea, vomiting, confusion, lethargy, and loss of consciousness.
- Heat exhaustion – Heavy sweating or no sweating, muscle cramps and weakness, paleness, cold or clammy skin, headaches, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, a fast or weak pulse, and loss of consciousness.
Stay Safe at Twin Town Villa
If you are thinking about moving into a senior living community to live a safer life, contact us at Twin Town Villa. We have compassionate staff that treat all residents like family. They are committed to providing nothing short of exceptional service and can help you build a safer life. If you have questions or would like to schedule a tour of our community, call us at (218)643-9542. We are here for you!