Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot
When the summer heat is at its peak, it's important to do what?
Plan outdoor activities strategically
Direct sunlight can quickly sap anyone’s energy, especially if they are older and maybe have less energy. What is something simple and quick that you can do when outside?
When outdoors, find the shade first.
When planning to step out, it is necessary to check what?
The weather forecast. By doing this, elder ones can know what to expect of the weather, dress appropriately.
This is a photoprotective topical product for the skin that helps protect against sunburn and prevent skin cancer.
Sunscreen, also known as sunblock or sun cream
It occurs when free water loss exceeds free water intake, usually due to exercise, disease, or high environmental temperature.
Dehydration
Too much exposure to the sun can irritate and cause damage to your eyes. What should you do?
When outside, wear sunglasses that protect from UV rays.
Although you should always be careful to store and take your prescription medications properly, it may be especially important in the summer. Certain medications cause an...
…increase in sun sensitivity, so you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether or not you need to take extra precautions in the summer.
High temperatures can be life-threatening. Always remember to communicate and let your friends and family know...
…know if you’ll be spending time outdoors, even if you’re only gardening.
What is among the most critical summer safety tips because seniors are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of UV rays?
Sun protection
Older adults are typically less aware of thirst, and as we age, our bodies naturally lose the ability to conserve fluid — which makes it even more important for seniors to …
Drink more
With high temperatures, seniors should...
…stay in air-conditioned or cool places and out of the sun.
Sunburns can be painful and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Help seniors apply...
apply sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) before going outside.
Senior adults often have sensitive skin that needs protection from harsh UV rays. If you’re taking a loved one outdoors on a hot day, ensure they...
have dressed appropriately for hot weather
Indoor pools are much more likely to have lifeguards on duty. Plus, an indoor pool reduces your risk of...
…your risk of developing heat-related illnesses in the hot summer sun.
What is a great way to stay connected and ensure an older adult's safety during these hot summer days?
Having a family member, friend or neighbor visit regularly
Confusion, disorientation, dry skin, excessive tiredness, headache, lethargy, nausea, and rapid pulse are signs of what?
Signs of a heat stroke
Older individuals are prone to West Nile Virus and encephalitis, both of which are spread by...
…mosquitoes. So Apply Bug Spray
If your home isn’t air-conditioned, spend the heat of the day someplace that is, such as...
…a shopping mall, a movie theater, a library, or a family member’s or friend’s house. In many communities, senior centers, churches, and social service organizations provide cooling centers when the temperatures rise. If you aren’t running your air conditioning because you need help paying your utility bill, resources may be available to you.
Wearing a _________ is a wise safety precaution for seniors who cannot swim or are too weak to tread water. Be sure the life jacket is free of holes or tears, and choose one that is appropriate for the height and weight of your senior swimmer.
life jacket. Be sure the life jacket is free of holes or tears, and choose one that is appropriate for the height and weight of your senior swimmer.
Swimming and water aerobics are low-impact exercises that are gentle on your joints. That doesn't mean you should skip the warm-up routine, however. Doing this can help you avoid strain injuries in the water?
Do some gentle stretching at the side of the pool before you get in to help warm up your muscles. Once you are in the water, continue to stretch as you adjust to the temperature of the water. Doing this can help you avoid strain injuries in the water.
Stock your wardrobe with ________ and _________ clothes to keep cool and stay comfortable.
light-colored, loose-fitting
Sometimes the most dangerous part of swimming is getting in and out of the water. Pool decks are often slippery, which can increase your risk of...
…having a fall and injuring yourself. To reduce that risk, wear swim shoes in the water. These shoes are made for the pool and have a rubberized, grippy sole. That rubberized sole will help you walk in the pool and also help you avoid slipping when getting in and out of the water.
is a severe heat illness that results in a body temperature greater than 40.0 °C, along with red skin, headache, dizziness, and confusion.
Sweating is generally present in exertional heatstroke, but not in classic heatstroke.
Water that is too hot directs blood flow to the skin and away from vital organs. Cold water has the opposite effect making the heart pump harder to keep extremities warm. In older adults, water even a couple of degrees colder than core body temperature can result in what?
hypothermia
If it's been a while since you've been in the water, consider signing up for?
class. You can sign up for a beginner or intermediate class, or some local Knoxville-area pools offer refresher courses for seniors getting back into the water. If there isn't one available near you, talk to a swim coach about taking a few private lessons to help you get started. This can help you refresh on pool safety and the best swimming techniques.