Beat the heat

With the summer months now upon us, Baycrest clients need to take extra care in the extreme heat. The elderly are among the population which can be susceptible to stress and illness from the heat. It takes time to adjust to hot temperatures, and serious medical problems can rise with the mercury of the thermometer. At Baycrest, many of our clients venture outside, but on certain days they should do so with caution. We can all beat the heat by taking some minor precautions:

Woman drinking water Perspiration can be hampered by humidity, which doesn’t help when heat and the humidex are high. Therapeutic Recreation will ensure to revise program schedules and locations of activities such as outings, barbeques and outdoor special events during the extreme heat. Those at high-risk of heat related problems such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke should stay in areas where there is plenty of air conditioning and air circulation.

Thirst declines with age, and older sweat glands don’t produce as much sweat as they used to. The sweat that is produced tends to contain more salt, and lack of salt in the body can lead to sudden drops in blood pressure. Drinking plenty of water, juice or beverages with electrolytes throughout the day, as often as every 15 to 20 minutes, will help you stay cool. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks can hamper the body’s ability to moderate temperature and should be avoided.

Cool cloths applied to the face, neck and arms, as well as short baths and showers are other good ways to beat the heat, as are avoiding heavy meals and wearing lightweight, light coloured clothing.

Everyone should be aware of signs of illness due to excess heat: Muscle cramps, fatigue, impaired concentration, confusion, lightheadedness, nausea, labored breathing, chest discomfort, and a rapid or erratic pulse can all be signs of trouble.

Also, everyone should be proactive in the prevention of West Nile virus, which is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. Prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellant and covering up with light clothing - long sleeves and pants.

TIPS FOR EVERYONE’S PROTECTION

Wear a hat with a wide brim; this will help shield your skin from the sun’s UV rays.
Sunglasses should also be worn to help protect the eyes from the sun’s UV rays.
When possible wear long-sleeves, long pants and socks when you are outdoors.
Avoid or take extra care when you are outdoors between dusk and dawn.
Avoid areas where there is standing water.
Try to stay in shaded areas when outdoors and avoid outdoor activities during midday, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Check the expiry date of protective products you are using.