Preparing for Spring and Summer: How to Face the Florida Heat

ourseniors.net-Preparing for Spring and Summer: How to Face the Florida Heat

While Florida is known for its “level-headed” temperatures during the spring and start of summer, the high for the state will still often reach 88 degrees Fahrenheit. You might be thinking, that’s perfect beach weather and while it can be, any temperature over 82 technically calls for extreme caution. It’s easy to get wrapped up in spring activities outdoors but as a senior, you still want to take caution while doing the things you enjoy. 

What you also want to keep in mind is that heat-related injuries and death are almost always preventable and because of that, it might seem shocking that every year, 67,512 visits to emergency rooms are related to excessive heat. It might also seem shocking that every year, 702 people die from excessive heat. 

As a senior living in Florida, it’s essential to know how to properly handle the Florida heat and it’s possible to do so safely without missing a beat in your schedule for spring. Keep reading to learn how you can prepare for hotter outdoor temperatures and how to prevent heat-related injury.

Preparing for the Florida Heat as a Senior

As temperatures rise during the spring and summer months, seniors need to be extremely cautious about their safety and general health during periods of excessive heat. Heat waves can quickly lead to an increase in hospitalizations and even fatalities, especially among older adults. What’s important to realize is that with age, we do become more sensitive to heat. Those 65 and older are often more prone to heat-related injury and while this is true, there are a variety of ways to get ahead of this potential problem. To stay safe during excessive heat, Florida seniors should consider the following tips:

Dress Appropriately

This might seem small but it’s something that will make a significant difference in both the way you feel and the way the heat affects you. Wear lightweight and breathable clothing made of natural fibers like cotton. Dark colors should be avoided as they absorb heat. Instead, choose light colors that are more reflective against the sunlight such as tan, lavender, or pale blue.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid beverages that contain caffeine, alcohol, and high amounts of sugar, which can cause dehydration. Choose the right type of fluid; generally, cold or iced drinks are the best for cooling yourself down and helping you to stay hydrated. For example, if you’re going to be working in high heat even if it’s just gardening or hosting a family event at the beach, you would want to drink at least 1 cup of water every 20 minutes

Of course, the best option would be to avoid peak times of sun during the day and to avoid working in direct sunlight and higher temperatures but in the case that you do, try to consume enough water to compensate for the exposure you’re experiencing.

Keep Your Home Cool

Take steps to keep your home cool during hot weather. Close windows and keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. Use dark-out curtains when possible to keep your home’s energy levels low and to enhance the temperature of your home without overworking your AC unit. You simply want to keep the air in your home circulating as best you can and your indoor temperatures regulated which will help you to transition from outside to inside more quickly.

Limit Sun Exposure

Stay out of direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day and try to keep up with the time of day. Any time between 10 am and 4 pm might be better suited for indoor activities considering that this is when the sun’s rays are the strongest. With that, try to avoid outdoor activities and when you are outdoors, wear sunscreen, make use of wide-brimmed hats to protect yourself, and keep water on hand. Also, avoid strenuous activity, as it can cause your body temperature to rise.

Schedule Activities Carefully

As we’ve mentioned, know when the heat index is at its highest and plan accordingly. Schedule outdoor activities during the peak of the day and do things outdoors when temperatures are lower and the sun’s heat is not as intense such as in the evening or the early mornings.

How to Prevent Heat-Related Injury 

As temperatures continue to rise during the hot Florida summers, seniors are at increased risk of suffering heat-related injuries. Seniors need to take extra care to protect themselves from the heat considering how easy it is to overlook the changes your body may experience. The best way to avoid heat-related illness is to be proactive. You can do this as a senior by knowing your limits, planning ahead, and having someone do outdoor activities with you, carrying a cooling towel, and wearing sunscreen. 

Seniors should take frequent breaks in areas with shade or air conditioning when engaging in outdoor activities. Other simple preventive measures include using fans, wearing clothing that is more loose-fitting, and actually getting acclimated to the Florida temperatures. If you are a senior that is new to the state, acclimation will be one of the best preventative measures that you will have.

What to Do in the Case of a Heat-Related Emergency as a Senior

Knowing how to tell when heat exhaustion or stroke is coming on can be life-saving. Symptoms of heat exhaustion could include heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and fatigue. You should also pay attention to clear signs of thirst and an elevated body temperature. Symptoms of heat stroke could be loss of consciousness, confusion, profuse sweating, or even dry skin. If a senior, or anyone experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to move to a cool area, preferably air-conditioned, remove any excess clothing, and to slightly elevate your legs. You should also sip cool water or something without caffeine that will help to replace the body’s lost electrolytes. It may also be necessary to seek medical attention. With quick action, a heat-related emergency can be safely treated or prevented altogether before it escalates into a life-threatening situation.

Enjoying Spring and Summer in Florida as a Senior

Life in Florida as a senior can be a truly rewarding experience, as the longer days and warm temperatures offer multiple opportunities to explore and enjoy time outdoors. From scenic beaches to a variety of parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the spring and summer months. However, with so much to do, there is just as much opportunity to fall victim to excessive heat. As a Florida senior, it’s important to stay aware of outdoor temperatures, weather patterns, and how you feel during times of excessive heat.

Paying attention to yourself and those around you could be what keeps you safe during the hotter months, even when it doesn’t seem like it’s needed.

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