Summer Health

Cynthia Lopinto Feature Article Leave a comment 2,083 Views

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

Summer 2016 is already one for the record books. Temperatures across the country have reached unprecedented highs and it is just the beginning of the season! The best way to handle the heat is by putting in place certain precautions and making sure you have any supplies needed. Here are some practical tips and ideas to help you survive the summer. While some of these may seem obvious, looking these over will serve as a helpful reminder and ensure your safety.

Water, water, water– Staying properly hydrated is the most important thing for your body and this is especially true in the summer heat. Keep ahead of your thirst – don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink something. Make sure to pack and bring extra water on any outings and keep some in your car. Freezing bottles of water is a great idea – that way you will always have some to grab to put in your car for a cool drink later. While most places sell bottled water now, you never know when supplies will run out or if you unexpectedly get stranded somewhere.

Sunscreen – You want to make sure you have enough sunscreen on hand for proper protection. Remember to reapply (especially if you are sweating or swimming) and keep checking sensitive areas for signs of sunburn. If you are with friends and family, check each other. Sometimes you don’t ever know you are burning if it is an area on your body you can’t see. Also read expiration dates on sunscreen. Last year’s leftover full bottle won’t do you any good if it is no longer effective! Limit your sun exposure. From 10am until 4pm are the hottest hours during the summer months. Yard work and gardening are so much better when done during morning hours or early evening.

Hats and umbrellas – Covering your head is one of the most practical and easiest ways to cool off. While there has been some recent debate on exactly how much heat escapes through our head, wearing a wide brim hat or sitting under an umbrella really cools the body. There are even hats on the market now made with UV protective sunblock material in lots of styles.

Sunglasses – Protecting our eyes from the glaring rays of the sun is crucial. This is true for all ages and especially as we get older. You will want to look for sunglasses that have both UVA and UVB protection. If you wear prescription glasses, you can either buy a pair of prescription sunglasses or sunglasses that fit over your regular pair. While actual prescription sunglasses are a bit pricey, it is well worth the investment if you end up wearing sunglasses more often. Make sure to always have sunglasses nearby and get in the habit of switching to them when outside.

Bug Spray – As the summer sun starts to go down, the one item you want to make sure you have close by is bug spray. Whether you opt for the more natural remedies or the packaged sprays, these are a must. With the recent discovery of the Zika virus among certain mosquito populations, precautions this year are even more meaningful. Also, remember to take a quick walk outside your home and get rid of any standing water (especially after a rainstorm). These are known breeding grounds for mosquitos.

Cool, Comfortable Attire- Loose fitting clothes are the best for the summer. You want something that lets air flow freely to help keep you cool. Also by choosing light colors allows sunlight to reflect the heat. Stay away from synthetic fabrics that tend to trap in moisture and make you feel sticky. Cottons and linens are a much better choice.

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.