10 Ways to Beat the Summer Heat

Stay healthy while having fun during the summer with these essential tips from Visiting Angels in Jenkintown, PA

Spending a lot of time outside sunbathing, walking, and taking part in various activities sounds very tempting during the summer. However, seniors should be aware that this season brings a lot of risks, especially during a heat wave. That is why Visiting Angels, the nation's leading senior care agency in Jenkintown, PA, has created the following tips to help older adults prepare for the upcoming hot days.

1. Keep household windows open

Seniors sometimes don't recognize that their body is overheating until it is too late. Therefore, open the windows to circulate fresh air and keep yourself cool.

2. Keep the car window open

Whenever you are traveling somewhere during a hot summer's day, make sure that the car window is open. Otherwise, you will put yourself at risk of overheating.

3. Don't spend too much time in the sun

Senior care providers don't recommend that you go outside when it is too hot. Instead, spend time outdoors early in the morning or later in the afternoon and wear light-colored clothing.

4. Drink plenty of fluids

You need to stay hydrated, especially because your body loses fluids faster than when you were young. If you want to, your senior care provider can ensure you drink plenty of fluids during the day.

5. Don't tire yourself out

Forget about gardening, mowing the lawn, and other strenuous outdoor physical activities during the heat wave. Instead, stay inside where it is cool and hire a landscaping company.

6. Exercise properly

Senior care providers recommend pool exercise or indoor activities in air-conditioned facilities. That way you can still stay in shape and socialize during these hot days.

7. Sun exposure might affect certain medications

Certain medications can inhibit perspiration and put you at risk of overheating. You should always read the warning labels on medication before you spend a whole day outside.

8. Sunscreen and bug repellent are a must

Keep bug spray and a quality sunscreen on hand and apply them according to instructions.

9. Have someone check up on you

In order to stay safe and healthy during a heat wave, have your loved one or your caregiver check up on you on a daily basis.

10. Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion

Fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and headaches may be signs of heat exhaustion, so if you experience these symptoms immediately hydrate, move someplace cool, and consult your physician.

To learn more about the live-in and 24-hour senior care services available in Jenkintown, Abington, Ambler, Huntingdon Valley, Lafayette Hill, Horsham, Lower Gwynedd, and throughout Eastern Montgomery County, PA, call Visiting Angels Jenkintown today at (215) 938-7201.