Cool Tips to Help You Beat the Heat

Water, Water, Water!

Your sense of thirst grows weaker as you age, so you may be dehydrated and not know it. Symptoms of dehydration include muscle pain or weakness, fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, dry mouth and confusion.
Drink at least 64 ounces, or eight cups, of water a day. Hotter temperatures can make you thirstier, so don’t hesitate to drink even more fluids.
Here are some tips:

• Drink a full glass of water when you take your medication.
• Have a glass or two of water with each meal or snack.
• If you don’t like plain water, add lemon, berries, mint or other garnishes to flavor your beverage.
• Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables like melon, oranges, peaches, strawberries, pineapple, bell peppers, cucumbers and lettuce.

 

Avoid Dehydrating Foods

Foods and beverages that are high in sugar and sodium can worsen dehydration, so steer clear of these items:

• Coffee
• Soda
• Energy drinks
• Alcohol
• Asparagus
• Artichoke
• Fried food
• Deli meat
• Frozen dinners

 

Keeping Yourself Cool

Your body produces less sweat as you get older. That affects your ability to regulate your body temperature. So, it’s important to dress appropriately and seek shade.
A few tips:

• Wear light-colored, breathable clothing made of cotton or linen.
• Keep clothing layers light and removable.
• Use a wet cloth to cool your face, neck and shoulders.
• Take a cold shower or bath.
• Place moveable fans near vents to boost airflow.
• Complete tasks like gardening, mowing the lawn or walking the dog in the morning to avoid peak sun hours.
• Ask friends, family or neighbors to help you with outdoor chores.
• Check the weather each day so you can plan your activities around heat waves and excessive humidity.
• If you want to go outside, find a shady spot and wear a hat to protect your head and neck from the sun.
• Close shades, curtains and blinds in the early afternoon to block the sun’s hottest rays.
• Be mindful of public cooling centers like libraries, civic buildings, shopping malls and recreation centers.

At Embassy Healthcare, we’re committed to ensuring our residents stay cool and hydrated so they can enjoy summer comfortably. Call 216-378-2050 for location information or schedule a tour online.