How Seniors Can Stay Cool in the Summer Heat

Sunshine feels so nice and warm, but when it gets to be downright hot or you stay out in the sun without protection, that can be dangerous. Since July is UV Awareness Month, let’s talk about how to stay both cool and safe this summer.

Although it’s already way too hot in many parts of the country, here in Georgia the National Weather Service predicts there is only a 40-50% chance our summer temperatures will “lean above” average. Still, that’s plenty warm.

UV Rays Are Dangerous at Any Temperature

Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet light damages skin over time, accelerating visible aging (dry skin, laxity, wrinkles, and dark spots) and increasing risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer is nearly always preventable, yet more than 20% of Americans will get skin cancer by the time they reach age 70. Prevention is simple says the American Academy of Dermatology Association:

• Stay in the shade whenever you can
• Wear sun-protective clothing
• Use broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) sunscreen with at least 30 SPF

Seeking shade and wearing clothing that shades you from the sun are also good ways to stay cool when it’s hot outside. But there are so many other ways to beat the heat and still enjoy all the things you love most about summer.

Here’s How to Keep Your Cool

Stay hydrated
Sweating is your body’s natural cooling mechanism, but replacing that lost moisture is essential to keep your internal systems functioning well. Did you know that high humidity makes it harder for you to cool naturally? That’s because sweat just sits on your skin rather than evaporating.

So drink lots of water. Any temperature will do, though drinking cold beverages can help you feel cooler. Freeze a plastic bottle of water, then it will be nice and cold to drink later. Avoid sugary highly caffeinated drinks because they heat up your metabolism.

Eating ice cream or popsicles can also help replace moisture and keep you cool, not to mention the yum factor.

Use water to lower your body temperature

• Take a refreshing cool shower or bath to reduce your core temperature.
• Place ice packs or a washcloth soaked in ice water on your wrists and around your neck to cool blood vessels that are close to the surface.
• Give yourself a refreshing spritz from a spray bottle.
• Run through the sprinkler! Better yet, stage a good old-fashioned water fight. Who says you’re too old to wield a squirt gun?! Get one of those great big ones so you can show the grandkids who’s boss.
• For Magnolia Manor residents in Americus, swimming in the pool at the Wellness Center is also a great way to lower body temperature using water.

Use peppermint soap or lotion
The scent of menthol triggers your brain to “think cold.” (This works for mint ice cream, too!)

Exercise when it’s cooler
Avoiding strenuous exercise is a good idea when it’s hot, but you can still get in your daily walk or bike ride by heading out in early morning or evening when temperatures are lower.

Magnolia Manor also offers indoor fitness rooms at select locations. This allows residents to exercise in controlled temperatures.

Make your own shade
As noted above, staying out of the sun is an easy way to keep cooler and protect yourself from sun exposure. But if you’re going to be out and about, consider carrying an umbrella. Or look for a fun paper parasol.

Change your eating habits
Eat smaller meals. Choose cooling moisture-rich foods such as salad fixings and fruits. On the other hand, if you love spicy food, go for it – the spiciness actually helps keep your body cool.

If you live at Magnolia Manor, aren’t you extra glad right now that you don’t have to heat up your living space with cooking? You can get three tasty meals in the comfortably cool resident dining room.

Choose breathable linens
Lightweight cotton sheets with lower thread count keep you coolest at night.

Reduce indoor temperature, with or without AC

• Open windows at night if it’s cooler, then close everything up in the morning.
• Close all blinds and curtains – the shady interior will seem cooler and actually be cooler.

And if all else fails, gather your friends and go shopping, out to lunch or dinner or to a movie – anywhere where it’s deliciously cool.

Curious about the different types of senior living care offered at Magnolia Manor? We're here to help answer any questions you may have. Contact us at 855-540-5433 to get more info and schedule a tour.