Fun New Ways to Beat the Heat

Heatstroke Is Serious — Staying Cool Doesn’t Have to Be

Whether it’s braving the summer heat in the steamy midwest or snowbirding in the arid Arizona desert, heatstroke can affect anyone. However, it can be devastating for seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults over the age of 65 are especially at risk of getting overheated because the way the body responds to high temperatures changes with age.

Prolonged exposure to heat can turn into a medical emergency, causing damage to internal organs. Since the best protection against heat-related health problems is prevention, here are tips for staying cool as the temperatures rise.

Up the Fluids

In hot weather, staying hydrated is important for everyone but especially seniors, whether or not they plan to spend time outside. Before heading out into the heat, it’s a good idea to increase water intake and keep a beverage nearby to sip on while in the sun. Water is a good choice of course, and alcohol isn’t recommended, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some flavorful options like smoothies, mocktails and fruit juices. Get creative and have a little fun with flavor and lots of ice!

Cool Activities: Water Isn’t Just for Drinking

While we don’t necessarily recommend a Slip and Slide for everyone without proper precautions, there are lots of fun things you can do inside and out to stay cool.

Kids love jumping and splashing around under the sprinkler in the yard, or even at a local splash pad. Encourage grandparents to join the fun playing with the kids. They can even just sit close by in the shade and enjoy getting “splashed” on occasion.

This theory extends to pools as well. Small inflatable pools are perfect for all generations if there aren’t mobility issues to consider. If there are, many community pools (indoor and outdoor) are equipped with special equipment to make getting in and out easier.

Enjoy Fun Out of the Sun

While the desire to be outside when the weather’s nice is sometimes undeniable, it often makes more sense to beat the heat from the comfort of a nice air-conditioned space. To encourage the die-hard outdoorsman (or woman) to stay inside, make sure they have plenty to do to keep them occupied.

Taking in a movie at the local theater is always a welcome treat but you can go a step further and plan a movie marathon at home. Between Netflix, Amazon and on-demand options, there are plenty of options to choose from. Tickets to a matinee performance of a live production are always nice too.

When the hot weather rolls around, whether it’s a dry heat or hot and steamy, protecting your loved ones is the first priority. Take the steps early to prepare and you’ll be ready to face those rising temps head-on.

~ Here’s to Your Financial Health!

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