Weather alerts and advisories in other parts of the country should serve as a bellwether of what we can expect and should prepare for this summer. Higher than average temperatures have persisted in California, Oregon, and across the Southwest and Southeast. We’ve even experienced unusually hot days here in western Washington state.
Excessive heat and humidity can be dangerous for all of us. Older adults and individuals living with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable and at a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses. The effects of some medications can contribute to making it difficult to regulate body temperature or to sweat.
Hot Weather Safety Tips
Temperatures of 80°F and above are when you need to take precautions. Plan ahead. Be prepared. Here are some tips to keep cool 
and stay proactive during hot weather:
Stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you are thirsty. Drink plenty of cool water, clear fruit or vegetable juices, or athletic drinks that contain electrolytes throughout the day. Fresh fruit (watermelon is a favorite) and cool treats such as fruit juice popsicles help hydrate as well. Stay away from liquids containing lots of sugar, or caffeine or alcohol as they can cause you to lose water in your body by making you urinate more. Hydration: How Much Water Should You Drink Every Day?
Dress for the weather. Best to wear loose, light-colored, cotton clothing. Dark clothing absorbs heat. If you need to be outside, wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
If you must go outdoors, be cautious. Use sunscreen for added protection. Stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Plan outdoor activities for early in the morning or after the sun begins to set, as these are cooler times of the day.
Keep cool. When you begin to feel warm, take a tepid bath or shower. Cool, wet cloths help when placed on your neck, wrists, armpits, and ankles. Keep blinds, shades, and curtains drawn during the heat of the day to keep out direct sunlight. If you have ceiling fans, use them! Limit use of your oven and stove.
Air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning and need a cool, safe space, check cooling centers in your community. Libraries, senior centers, places of worship, movie theaters, shopping centers and malls are such spaces. If you need transportation to a cooler place, ask a friend, neighbor, or relative. Some senior centers and Area Agencies on Aging provide this service. Search the Eldercare Locator to find services in your area. Don’t wait for a bus outside in the heat.
Heat-related illnesses. Know the symptoms. Headache, confusion, dizziness, or nausea could be a sign of a heat-related illness. The CDC has a helpful chart that identifies what to look for and what to do in the event of an illness. As the CDC indicates, heat-related illnesses are preventable. Learn the symptoms and what to do if you or others show signs.
Check in on older family members, friends, and neighbors. Heatwaves disproportionately affect people aged 65 and older and people with chronic illnesses. Be sure to check-in throughout the day during high-heat weather.
<CLICK HERE to download a copy of Hot Weather Safety Tips>
We love warmer weather and our time outdoors here in the Pacific Northwest, but encourage everyone, regardless of age, to be informed, hydrated, and keep cool to stay safe and healthy this summer.
Are you concerned about an older family member or friend who lives locally? Are you especially worried during periods of extreme weather? We can help!
Our Care Managers are experienced advocates, communicators, and can help address your concerns. Click here to schedule a get-acquainted call with one of our Certified Care Managers.
