As the mercury rises, knowing how to keep yourself cool and safe in the heat is vital. However, you don’t need to compromise your lifestyle while protecting yourself from the heat. Whether you’re relaxing in your Independent Living apartment or out and about in Tulsa, OK, the following heat safety tips can help you enjoy a comfortable, active summer.
Know the Signs of Heat Stroke and Dehydration
Older adults have a higher risk of heat stroke and dehydration because changes in body composition can make maintaining body temperature and hydration levels more difficult. Heat stroke and dehydration are of particular concern in July because the average daytime temperature in Tulsa is around 93.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Certain medical conditions and medications can make heat stress more likely, but you can take steps to keep yourself safe.
Knowing the signs of heat stroke and dehydration is essential. Understanding how to spot heat-related health problems in yourself and others allows you to get medical help more quickly, reducing your risk of complications. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Rapid heart rate
- Fast breathing
- Reduced sweating
- Fatigue
- Flushed skin
- Disorientation
Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Avoiding spending time outside during the hottest time of the day can help reduce your risk of a heat-related illness and keep you more comfortable. Generally, temperatures rise toward their peak at around noon, although the hottest time of the day is around 3 p.m. Therefore, the safest times to enjoy the great outdoors in summer are in the morning, late afternoon or evening.
If you can’t avoid going outside, stay in the shade or air conditioning as much as possible. Montereau offers many indoor activities and amenities to keep you cool in the warmer months. When you are outside, wearing loose, light clothing and drinking regularly can also make it easier to cope with high temperatures. It’s also wise to wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and scalp from the sun and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Enjoy Heat-Safe Activities
Scorching temperatures don’t mean you have to stay stuck indoors in your Independent Living apartment. Planning some fun indoor activities in air-conditioned spaces is a great way to socialize and relax while beating the heat. As a Montereau resident, you can enjoy a cooling dip in our indoor swimming pool or take an aquatic fitness class as a safer alternative to exercising outside.
Alternatively, consider heading to air-conditioned venues in Tulsa to escape the hottest periods of the day. Libraries, shopping malls and theaters are ideal places to cool off and enjoy some downtime.
Protect Your Skin
Sunlight is excellent for getting your daily dose of vitamin D. However, protecting your skin against sunburn is essential. Older adults have a higher risk of developing skin cancer, so it’s wise to apply a high-SPF sunblock regularly and cover your skin as much as possible.
Knowing how to treat sunburn can reduce discomfort and minimize the risk of infections and other complications. Avoid exposing sunburned skin to sunlight until it’s healed, and resist the urge to pop any blisters. Applying cooling gels containing soy or aloe vera can help soothe pain and tenderness.
Stay Hydrated
You may need more than eight glasses of water a day in hot weather. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to pour a drink — by the time you experience thirst, your body is already slightly dehydrated. Taking regular sips throughout the day and avoiding diuretic beverages that make you urinate more often, such as tea and coffee, can help you keep hydrated.
It can also be helpful to add water-rich fruits and veggies to your meals. Cucumbers, tomatoes and juicy fruits all have a high water content and can be refreshing on hot days. What says summertime more than a slice of watermelon?
Some health conditions and medications can impact the amount of water you need to stay healthy. Your doctor or the health care team at Montereau can advise you how best to meet your hydration needs. Your provider may also recommend hydration drinks, such as Pedialyte, to promote a healthy electrolyte balance and reduce the risk of dehydration.
Schedule a Tour
At Montereau, our friendly team is always on hand to help you maintain optimal wellness all year round. Schedule a tour to explore your options for Independent Living in Tulsa, OK, and experience our unique services, dining options and amenities.