Summer is in swing! As the weather gets warmer, here are some friendly tips on avoiding heat-related illnesses from the National Institute on Aging.
- Drink plenty of liquids! Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If your doctor has told you to limit your liquids, ask what you should do when it is very hot.
- If you don’t have AC, try to keep your space as cool as possible by keeping the windows shaded during the afternoon and opening windows at night.
- Try to spend time during midday in a place that has AC. For example: we LOVE to chill out here at Bugbee!
- Dress for the weather: wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- If you must go outside, try to limit your time out and avoid crowded places.
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat or other protective clothing to avoid sunburn.
- Ask your doctor if any of your medications make you more likely to become overheated or sunburned.
- Headache, confusion, dizziness, or nausea could be a sign of a heat-related illness. Go to the doctor or to an emergency room to find out if you need treatment.
Learn more from the National Institute on Aging: Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults.
