Heat waves are blanketing the country. We aren’t talking “scare tactics” or political agendas, but about something going on as we speak. Summer is here, and seniors aren’t doing well.
As we age our bodies do not adapt to sudden changes in temperature. Various medical conditions, and the prescription medications taken by many, have been known to exacerbate heat related illnesses.
Some parts of the country are in crisis mode. Emergency rooms are not only treating people for heat stroke and heat exhaustion but for burns. The adage of being able to fry an egg on the sidewalk is no longer just a wife’s tale.
My cousin, wise woman that she is, wrote this morning about the heat wave engulfing her city. She described measures she was taking to get ready for what was going to be a very warm week. She was up early to do necessary chores while it was still relatively cool. Chores included checking recipes that she could fix in her slow cooker or microwave and making up pitchers of cold drinks to keep in her refrigerator. She, like many older adults, has a problem with dehydration.
It is a good time, especially if air quality factors into the equation, to stay indoors. Keep your house as cool as possible with fans and air conditioners. Find indoor tasks and hobbies to keep you alert and give you something productive to do.
What else can you do? Be hyper vigilant. Pay attention. Force yourself to drink enough water. Dehydration is a big concern.
Protect your skin and eyes. Yes, sunscreen, a nice rich sunscreen that will protect your dry paper-thin skin. Wear a hat and sunglasses and dress in loose-fitting comfortable clothing.
Know when to stay inside. Check the weather report for heat alerts. Sun is strongest from 10 am to 4 pm so limit outdoor activities to morning and evening hours. Go to air-conditioned cooling venues set up in schools, senior centers, malls and libraries. Take good care of yourself.
Know your own body. Recognize when you don’t feel quite right and call for help. Exhaustion, headache, dizziness and flushed skin can creep up on you. This is not your new normal.
Leave a Reply