HOT TOPIC: How Seniors Can Stay COOL During the HOT Summer Months

Summer is now here along with its hot temperatures and humidity.  Therefore, it is very important for all of us to stay cool and hydrated especially the elderly population.  Below is a listing of things to do in order to stay safe and cool during these extremely warm summery months to come:

• Keep air circulating with fans; take cool sponge baths.
• Go to an air-conditioned building if possible. Older adults can visit their local senior center, library, or mall.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-weight clothing.  If going out, wear a hat.
• Drink lots of water and don't wait to get "thirsty".
• Avoid alcohol.
• Limit physical activity and direct exposure to the sun.
• Check with your health care provider about how the warm weather may affect your prescription drugs.
• Contact your health provider if you experience prolonged heat-related symptoms, or if those symptoms significantly affect the ability to care for yourself.

Very hot intense weather can also cause dangerous strain on the heart, exacerbate respiratory impairments like asthma or emphysema and a range of other medical conditions, and also affect the ability to manage chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.  For more information about services for the elderly, call NYC, Department for the Aging at 311 or 212-New-York outside the five boroughs.