Stay Cool! Fall 2008 is Here (for seniors)

Even though the calendar shows that summer 2008 is coming to an end, many warm days still lay ahead for some of us. Don’t make the mistake of changing out your wardrobe and forgetting the rules of being cool in hot weather.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that every year around 300 people in the U.S. die from heat-related ailments. In addition, thousands of American citizens suffer from dehydration, heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Senior citizens are more susceptible to the effects of heat, as their bodies return to normal slowly, and their bodies' cooling mechanism is not as efficient as younger people's--but you can still be cool and enjoy the last days of summer.
Say Yes to Fluids
Seniors are particularly vulnerable in hot weather to heat exhaustion or worse. Dehydration from the body accelerates during the summer months, and some medications whose side effects include loss of fluid and electrolytes from the body can prove dangerous. It has been found that some diuretics, antibiotics and other medications can slow down the body's natural capacity to control body temperature. Seniors as well as others should always check with their doctors and pharmacists to find out if the medications prescribed have any such side effects. Seniors should avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages as much as possible as they accelerate dehydration. Drinking just plain water may not be adequate as the body also loses sodium and potassium salts through sweating. The popular sports drinks can be used for this purpose, or you can drink a homemade one.
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead for outings. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, cool clothing (preferably cotton) and use head coverings like hats or caps. As a senior, your skin is sensitive, and you should use high SPF sunblocks (30+) and avoid direct sun as much as possible by seeking out shaded spots.
Work the Split Shift
Work earlier in the day. Some people will start work around 5 a.m. and quit at 1 or 2 p.m. You might even consider a split shift of work during the day. Work in the shade whenever possible and between the hours of 5 and 9 a.m. and 5 and 9 p.m. if the middle of the day is predicted to be above 90 degrees.
Watch out for Signs of Trouble
Signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion are less pronounced in seniors due to aging, certain medications and chronic conditions. Symptoms of heat stroke will become pretty obvious, but may mimic a heart attack or other coronary event. Watch out for a feeling of being overheated and dizziness. As it progresses, you may notice you are no longer sweating, and your skin feels flush. After that, your heart rate will speed up, you may throw up, and you will become disorientated. The results can be seizure, coma or, in some cases, death. Consult your doctor immediately if you or your loved one experiences the following symptoms:
1. Development of hot dry skin with inability to sweat
2. Confusion or disorientation
3. Vomiting
4. Fainting or loss of consciousness
The faster anyone moves, the faster your body gets heated up. Hence seniors should take it slow in the summer, especially when it is hot.