Spring is well underway, and summer is nearly here. This is an uplifting time of year when we tend to become more active, spend more time outdoors and also catch up with people during the festive season.
It’s also important to stay safe, here are my top tips:
Stay sun and heat safe
This comes up every year of course, and we all know to slip, slop, slap. But did you know to also seek and slide? The Cancer Council added these last 2 protective actions to reflect the importance of seeking shade and sliding on wraparound sunglasses to prevent sun damage. This summer is predicted to be particularly hot, and our older population is vulnerable to heat stress. In fact, over 200 elderly people succumb to the heat every year in Australia. In particular, those who live by themselves and those who have problems with their mobility or have dementia, are the most at risk. So as well as looking after ourselves by staying indoors during the heat of the day, seeking shade when outside, seeking out public places with air conditioning, such as libraries and shopping centres (if you haven’t got an air conditioner at home yourself), we also need to check in with our elderly family and friends. Make sure you know the signs of heat stress and heat stroke, and seek medical help if necessary.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include:
- headache
- nausea
- dizziness
- weakness
- irritability
- thirst
- heavy sweating
- elevated body temperature
- decreased urine output
Stay hydrated
With the festive season coming up, there are plenty of end of year celebrations to attend. It’s important to drink enough water, and avoid too much alcohol, caffeinated drinks and drinks high in sugar. These drinks can make you even more dehydrated, and dehydration can exacerbate heat stress and heat stroke. If you are enjoying a few drinks, remember to alternate with a glass of water, and remind your mate to do the same.
Hilde Aschehoug
Home Care Manager
