Staying Cool This Summer

Jewish Home’s Dr. Richard Neufeld offers advice for seniors on how to stay cool and healthy as temperatures climb.
  
 
Older people are especially vulnerable to dehydration in the summer heat, says Dr. Neufeld, because many medications prescribed to seniors cause water loss in the body. Drinking an extra two glasses of water a day, wearing appropriate clothing and sunblock, and running errands early or late in the day, when it is cooler, are all good ways to protect against dehydration.

Neufeld explains that wearing a sweater in the summer is one of the most common mistakes that elders make. In addition to dehydration, becoming overheated can lead to increased falls.

Friends and family can help their loved ones in the summer heat by being part of a buddy system, checking in with seniors routinely.

Tips for Staying Cool

Follow these guidelines to play it cool – and safe – when temperatures climb:

• Drink plenty of water or diluted fruit juices
• Avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages
• Eat light meals and avoid high-protein foods
• Use cool compresses, dip your feet in cold water or take a cool bath or shower
• Complete errands during the cooler morning or evening hours
• Avoid strenuous physical activities
• Wear sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and loose, light-colored clothing
• Rest in air-conditioned areas like a library, bank or a store (NYC offers free cooling centers; call 311 for locations)
• Carry a spray bottle filled with water to spritz on your face and neck
• Lower shades to keep light and heat out
• Keep all rooms well ventilated with a fan, air conditioner or open windows