Princeton's Ask The Doctor July/August 2019

By Sheli Monacchio Beat the Heat-How to Remain Active and Safe in the Summer Heat ADVICE FOR THE AGING COMMUNITY Staying active is a priority. But how do we remain active and keep our safety in mind? Here are a few ways to put your safety first: • When attending a family picnic or other summer get together, be sure to find a shady area to sit so you are not in the direct sunlight. • Be sure to wear sunscreen. If you go in the water, remember to reapply. Do wear sunscreen even if you are in a shady spot because a few clouds or a hazy day can disguise the UV rays of the sun. • Stay hydrated! Drink 4-8 glasses of water per day and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Choose sports drink or grab some fresh fruit for an alternative to water. • Wear layers! When it’s very hot outside that means it’s probably going to be air conditioned inside. So be sure to wear a light sweater or jacket indoors if you tend to get chilly so that when you go outside you can remove it to adjust to the heat. • If you enjoy outdoor activities, be aware of the time of day. Do not go for a walk, garden, etc. at the hottest point in the day. Use the early morning or after supper hour to do the things you like to do outdoors when it’s very hot. • As we age, some of us experience thinning hair, so be sure to wear a hat in the sun to avoid getting unexpected sunburn on your scalp. Seniors are less sensitive to heat so they are also less likely to notice heat-related warning signs. Headaches and nausea can be a sign of heat exhaustion and of course, an even more extreme condition of heat stroke.

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Listen to your body. Cramps in the summer could also be a sign that you are not taking in enough water. Fun in the sun is great, but always remember your safety comes first!

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