The summer can be a great time for relaxing with family and enjoying the nice weather. But it can also be a dangerous time of the year if you don’t take the proper precautions. This is especially true for young children and the elderly.
Your body works hard every day to maintain a normal temperature. Excessive heat forces your body to work harder than normal, essentially forcing your body to work above and beyond its normal limits. For senior citizens in particular, this can be deadly. While the sun can affect anyone and everyone, it is even more important for people in poor health to take extra precautions, regardless of their age.
For the most part, heat-related illnesses are a direct result of exposure to the sun and heat. This includes simple sunburns, heat exhaustion and sometimes even heat stroke. There are many different ways to combat these illnesses, however, some of which are very simple and easy to do.
Here are some of the easiest ways for senior citizens to stay safe over the summer months:
Protect your skin. Use sunscreen when you know you’ll be outside for a prolonged period of time during the day. It doesn’t take long to apply, and can save you a lot of suffering later. Wear a hat to lessen sun exposure to the face and neck – two spots extremely vulnerable to contact with the sun.
Drink plenty of water. The easiest way to stay cool is also often the most overlooked. Drinking plenty of water during the hot summer months is a great way to stay hydrated and safe while out in the sun. The heat can dehydrate you quickly, so make sure to have plenty of water on hand during the day, whether you’re outdoors or not.
Take frequent breaks to cool down. When spending time out in the hot sun, it’s beneficial to take numerous breaks to allow your body to recover. Having a cool area in your home in which to recover can also be beneficial. Make sure your cooling device – whether you have an electric fan, a portable air conditioner or central AC – is working properly to ensure faster recovery.
Limit strenuous activity and exercise. Your body 
works hard enough during the hot days that adding strenuous physical activity can be detrimental. If you exercise regularly, try it during the early morning or late evenings. Planning around the hottest time of the day can help to limit exposure to the heat and can be much easier on your body. Take regular breaks when possible if you have to work outdoors.
Check on your friends and family. The heat can be especially difficult on young children and the elderly, so make sure to check regularly on your family, friends and neighbors during hot spells. Often heat-related issues arise before you have a chance to ask for help.
Mike Tennant is a freelance writer and columnist focusing on health and lifestyle topics. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Mike currently works with Air Conditioner Home as an online developer and consultant.
