Beat the Heat: 5 Ways to Stay Cool this Summer

At some point during the summer months, there’s a good chance the mercury will rise, temperatures soar, and you’ll crank up the air conditioner or cooling fan to full power.

Inside a cool house is a good place to be when it’s hot. But at some point, you’ll probably need to get outside, go for a walk, take a trip to the store, or show up for an appointment. Maybe you’ll even spend the day at the park, beach, or lake. Here’s how to keep cool in the heat:

Keep cooking to a minimum. When it’s blazing hot, look for ways to avoid turning on the oven or stove (which will heat up your house) to prepare meals. Salads and sandwiches might work. Or you can enjoy one of our 90-plus Senior-Friendly meals made from fresh ingredients that only takes a few minutes to prepare in the microwave.

1. Drink more water.
   Drinking an average of 64 ounces of water a day is a good goal for most adults. But the amount of water you need to stay hydrated varies based on a number of factors like your activity level and weight. And you’ll need to drink more in hot weather to keep up with perspiration to stay hydrated.
2. Pick your playtimes if you can
   If you are going to be outside for a round of golf, a trip to the beach, or some yardwork, try and avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day. The hottest hours of the day are generally around 4 to 6 p.m.
3. Protect your skin
   If you’re going to be outside for more than 15 minutes, protect your skin. Lather on sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher, and reapply every few hours. Wear sunglasses, light-colored loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
4. Know the warning signs of heat stroke
   If you are going to be outside for long periods, know the warning signs of heat stroke to protect yourself or people you’re with. Your body’s core temperature is too high when you begin experiencing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, headache, dry and flushed skin, fainting, heavy breathing, or a change in behavior. Heat stroke can be deadly. At the first sign of any of these symptoms seek shade, get inside an air-conditioned building, place a cool cloth on the neck and forehead, rehydrate with cold water, and seek medical care if symptoms do not improve.

Summer is always a great time to soak up a little more sun. Be safe and enjoy some good food while you’re at it.