Beating the Heat: Important for Seniors Who Want to Stay Active

·          Seniors do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature.

·          They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that upsets normal body responses to heat.

·          They are more likely to take prescription medicines that impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature or that inhibit perspiration.

Following are some ways to beat the heat this summer:

·          Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages. (If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink when the weather is hot. Also, avoid extremely cold liquids because they can cause cramps.)

·          Rest.

·          Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath.

·          If possible, seek an air-conditioned environment. (If you don't have air conditioning, consider visiting an air-conditioned shopping mall or public library to cool off.)

·          Wear lightweight clothing.

·          If possible, remain indoors in the heat of the day.  Check with your doctor to make sure it???s O.K., then try gardening and fishing in the early morning or late afternoon.