Seniors in Summer – How to Turn Down the Heat!

(Note: this is not intended as medical advice – always check with your GP before increasing fluid intake.)

Once, you couldn’t get enough of gorgeous summer sun – now you find the heat intolerable. If this sounds like you, it may be age-related. As we grow older, heat can become an issue, sometimes causing dehydration, nausea, urinary tract infection, poor co-ordination, and mental fatigue. Health conditions can complicate matters further, as well as the medications taken to manage them. Just as very young infants can have difficulty adjusting their internal body temperature, so the same thing can happen in those who are growing older. It can all contribute to unwanted and unhealthy heat stress. If you’re suffering from heat related problems, check them out with your GP, without delay. In the meantime, the following can help stave off the effects on your body, of rising summer temperatures:

Adding the sparkle

For some, tap water can be downright unappealing, even when chilled with a slice of lemon! Sparkling water, on the other hand, can feel like a treat. Stock up on it when it’s on special, or better still, skip the plastic and invest in a Soda Stream (it will pay it’s own way in no time – and second hand versions are often available in op-shops and on Trade Me).

Finding the fluids

Liquid doesn’t come only in a glass! Some foods contain more liquid than others, and it’s these we should focus on in the summer months. As the heat turns up, enjoy jellies, custards, fruit salads, smoothies, salads, white sauces, and cool summer soups (gazpacho soup is a great way to use up the greenhouse tomato glut!).

Yes – you do have an air conditioner!

Few people realise the heat pump that kept them cosy all winter, can also be used as an air conditioner. Read the instructions (if you can’t find them, they can almost certainly be tracked down online when you know the make and model of your machine). Learn how to use the timer so the cooling mechanism cuts in during the heat of the day (that way, if you doze off in the afternoon, you’ll be automatically cooled).

Follow the shade

Humans are creatures of habit – which means we prefer our same chair in the same room of the house. But watch animals, especially stock in the field, and you’ll see they move throughout the day to seek out shade. Follow suit by setting up 2 or 3 comfortable relaxation spots around the house. When the sun reaches one spot, head to another in a cooler part of your home (and close the blinds or curtains behind you, before you leave).

Garden nooks

Establish a resting place in your garden which is sheltered from the sun by overhanging trees or a shade sail (the latter is a great gift – in case anyone is asking!). There is almost always a cooling breeze outdoors, even on the stillest of days. (Don’t forget to take a jug of water with you when you head outside.)

Schedule appointments

Plan regular appointments well ahead of time, and book early morning slots when the day is at its coolest. Allow plenty of time to get there – rushing only increases stress and heat build-up in your body.

Exercise early

Summer days are long. Get up bright and early, and go for your walk while the day is still crisp and cool. Head for a spot where you know others will be doing the same (you don’t want to find yourself alone, simply because you’re out and about, early).

Dining out

If meeting friends for lunch, choose a restaurant (preferably with parking) where you can sit outdoors, under shade. Consider brunch instead of a midday meal when the heat is harshest.

Shop smart

When the days are hot, take advantage of online shopping and free delivery. If you do go to the supermarket yourself, make it an early morning or evening trip to avoid the heat and the crowds.

Limit alcohol

At the best of times, alcohol can impact our balance and co-ordination, not to mention impair our judgement. But when the heat is on, these effects are exacerbated. Reduce alcohol intake by topping up summer wines with sparkling water, enjoying low or no-alcohol beers, wines and spirits, or choosing a fruit juice cocktail over an alcohol based one.

Keep your body and your brain happy in the heat – it’s the best way to enjoy summer!