- Beat the heat! When we are overexposed to heat, we risk developing heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Symptoms might include hot skin, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and profuse sweating etc. If someone is experiencing this, move to shaded area, drink cool water or sports drinks, apply wet towels/ice packs, and seek medical attention if needed.
- Swimming! Make sure to swim with someone to help if something goes wrong.
- If a senior is a fall risk, schedule swim time with a caregiver present and able to help.
- Stay hydrated! Drink lots of water or sports drinks with electrolytes.
- Wear sunscreen with UV protection.
- Wear light, colored, loose clothing to reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them and heat you up. Wear a hat.
- Wear sunglasses on sunny days to protect your eyes. - Avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day, between 11am and 3pm.
- If you spent time in the sun in the past, get checked regularly by your doctor to make sure there is no evidence of skin issues ie. cancer.
Practice good sun and water safety as you enjoy all the outdoor activities summer has to offer!
*Sources: National Safety Council, www.nsc.org, American Red Cross, www.redcross.org, Swimming Safety for Seniors, www.guardianpoolfence.com