Keep Your House Cool
Keeping the inside of your home cool is very important for the health and safety of senior citizens this summer. Therefore, you should make sure your home is properly equipped with a functioning air conditioning system. Luckily, there is a variety of options available to cool your home.
Ductless air conditioners are an air conditioning technology that is increasing in popularity for a variety of reasons. They offer a variety of benefits such as efficiency, silence, and increased comfort.
Other benefits of ductless air conditioners are their multi zone technologies. When you opt for a multi-zone system, you have one outdoor unit and several indoor units in your home, spaced out in various rooms, and you can control the temperature in one room without impacting another. Therefore, you can keep your bedroom cooler than other rooms, which is a very easy way to safely stay cool this summer. Not only is it easier to fall asleep in a cooler room, but it is also healthier.
However, there are other non-HVAC ways to keep your house cool this summer. Keep the curtains and blinds closed during the day to keep sunlight out. You can also invest in blackout curtains, which completely block out any and all sunlight. Finally, you can install ceiling fans in your home. They are a cheap and easy way to cool your home if you do not want to invest in any other HVAC systems.
Hydrate and Eat Right
One of the most important and easiest ways for seniors to stay cool in the summer is to hydrate and eat right. Seniors are very prone to dehydration and other health problems related to extreme heat because they lose the ability to conserve water and become less aware of their thirst as they age. Therefore, seniors must drink plenty of water in the summer. Sports drinks are also recommended to replenish electrolytes.
Seniors should also limit their caffeine and alcohol intake. Caffeine and alcohol naturally dehydrate the body, so they must be enjoyed in moderation or avoided entirely over the summer.
There is also a variety of lighter meal options this summer that can help you stay cool. For example, instead of a heavy course like meatloaf, you can opt for a lighter fare of chicken, tofu, or pasta salad. There are also lighter and refreshing snack options such as popsicles, fruits, and vegetables.
Dress Accordingly
Dressing for the weather is always recommended, especially in the scorching summer heat. To stay cool this summer, seniors should wear lighter fabrics and breathable clothes. Some find natural fabrics such as puckered seersucker cotton are cooler than synthetic fabrics, making them the perfect choice for your wardrobe this summer. You should also have layers available in case you find yourself alternating between hotter temperatures outside and cooler temperatures indoors.
You can also accessorize this summer and wear hats or sunglasses. A wide-brimmed hat can keep the sun off your face and neck, and sunglasses keep the sun out of your eyes and make it easier to see. Not only are they beneficial and functional, but they are also very stylish!
Limit Outdoor Time
Even though everybody loves taking advantage of the summer weather, seniors must be careful when spending time outside. There is ample time in the day to partake in golfing, hiking, gardening, or another outdoor activity of your preference. However, it is best to avoid peak hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), as that is when the sun is at its brightest and temperatures are highest. Being outside during these hours increases your risk of sunburn, hyperthermia, and dehydration.
Therefore, it is recommended to socialize in a cooler indoors area. If you want to get out of the house, you can go to a mall, book store, coffee shop, or any other of your favorite local establishments.
Wear Sunscreen and Other Skin Products
Over the summer, it is important to utilize skin products such as bug spray and sunscreen to stay safe. Bug spray is an easy way to protect you from all the bugs of summer, as all you have to do is apply before going outside. Their bites are not only annoying and irritating, but they could also lead to an infection. You should also wear sunscreen when going outside. Sunscreen is the easiest way to protect yourself from the sun, as it helps prevent sunburn and cools you down.
Relax by the Water
Another safe way to stay cool this summer is to relax by the water. Sitting by the pool with a good book and an ice-cold drink is a great safe way to beat the heat this summer. However, make sure you limit your exposure to the sun and relax under an umbrella or cabana. If you decide to swim, make sure you wear water wings if you are unsteady on your feet and have a strong swimmer accompany you. You can also stay safe in the shallow end if you do not want to wade into the deeper swimming waters. Sitting with your feet in a kiddie pool or wide bucket is also more refreshing than you might imagine.
Now you’re ready to safely beat the heat this summer! However, it is important to exercise caution and remain aware of your body. If you notice any symptoms of dehydration such as excessive sweating, fatigue, nausea, and dry mouth, you should take immediate action. Get out of the sun, drink water, and seek medical attention if your symptoms persist.
Read more blog: Why a spa break is perfect for you this summer