Tips for staying cool this summer

Summer is here and the weather is getting warmer! As you get older keeping your body cool becomes more difficult, as the body become less efficient at regulating body temperature.

Illness and medications can also play havoc with temperature regulation. To help you get through the summer, we’ve put together our top tips for staying cool in the heat and looking after yourself.
 

9 Tips for staying cool

As the weather gets warmer, you need to be careful not to overheat. Here are a few tips to help you stay cool.

1. Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (10am-5pm).
2. Limit strenuous activities or exercise to cooler times of the day.
3. Wear lightweight breathable clothing in lighter colours such as cotton.
4. Drink plenty of cold water or juice throughout the day and avoid drinking caffeine and alcohol. 
5. Eat cold, light meals instead of hot and heavy meals. Sandwiches and salad are perfect summer meals.
6. Eat cool snacks such ice lollies or smoothies. 
7. Use a sheet rather than a duvet at night to help with sleeping.
8. Use a cool face cloth on the back of the neck if you are feeling warm to help reduce your body temperature. 
9. Take a cool shower or bath, just below body temperature, to help you to cool down. If this is not possible, sponge yourself with a cool face cloth.

Tips for keeping your home cool

Keeping your house temperature low will also help you to stay cooler during the warmer months. Here are our top tips to keep your home cool.

1. Close and cover windows. Close your windows during the hottest part of the day and shut your curtains or blinds to block out the sun. 
2. Close off any rooms you are not using to keep the cool air where you need it most.
3. Use air-conditioning if you have it, or if not, use a fan to help with air circulation. Placing a bowl of ice or cold water in front of the fan can help to cool the breeze.
4. Turn off appliances that you are not using as some generate heat in standby such as TV’s and Computers. Also limit your usage of the stove and oven.
5. Open the windows in the evening if there is a cool breeze. This will help to reduce the temperature in your home and make sleeping easier.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke in the summer can be a real possibility for everyone but especially the elderly. Here are the signs to look out for

• Temperature over 38 degrees
• Fast heart rate
• Shallow breathing
• Hot and red skin
• Not sweating despite being hot
• Disorientation or confusion
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of consciousness or fainting

Heatstroke is a life threatening condition. If you or your loved one experience any of these symptoms then you should seek immediate medical attention by calling 999.