With summer upon us it is important to play it safe when we play outside. Too much heat can be risky for healthy 40 year olds as well as seniors. The National Institutes of Health has issued the following tips for hot weather fun.
Check the weather forecast. If it’s very hot or humid, exercise inside with a Go4Life DVD or walk in an air-conditioned building like a shopping mall.
Drink plenty of liquids. Water and fruit juices are good options. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. If your doctor has told you to limit liquids, ask what to do when it is very hot outside.
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics.
Dress in layers so you can remove clothing as your body warms up from activity.
Get medical help right away if you think someone might have a heat-related illness. Watch for these signs:
-Fainting, headache, dizziness, or nausea
-Body temperature over 105°F
-A change in behavior—confusion, agitation, being grouchy, acting strangely, staggering, or being unresponsive
-Dry, flushed skin and a strong rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse
-Not sweating even if it is hot”
As a senior myself, I take these warnings very seriously. Please check out my Page What to do about Extreme Heat for more info.
Tony
Wellness Secrets of a SuperAger 