Virginia Heat Alert for Seniors - Stay Hydrated!
Tips For When The Heat Index Soars In Fredericksburg
It's common for us to become complacent about the extreme heat here, but doctors want you to remember that the heat can be a real danger for seniors.
Hot weather is dangerous, and seniors are at risk. Elderly heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be prevented if we all help to look out for the seniors in our lives. 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. are among people over 65, and we must do what we can to help keep seniors stay safe in the heat.
There are several reasons for elderly heat vulnerability. People’s ability to notice changes in their body temperature decreases with age. Many seniors also have underlying health conditions that make them less able to adapt to heat. Furthermore, many medicines that seniors take can contribute to dehydration. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help to keep seniors safe.
When scalding temperatures keep climbing, here are some tips on how to stay cool in Fredericksburg:
City Swimming Pool: When the heat Index is unsafe, local residents can cool off at Doris E. Buffett Swimming Pool for free. Free admission is offered by showing proof of City of Fredericksburg residency. Guests and non-residents are welcome, and will be charged daily admission fees. Pool hours are 11:30am - 7:00pm Saturday and Sunday. The pool is located in Dixon Park, 1300 Dixon Street. More information is available online at www.fredparksrec.com or by calling (540) 310-0665.
Keep hydrated when you’re out and about - Outdoor drinking water fountains can be found at the following locations:
- VCR trailhead at Essex Street
- Canal trail at the City dog park
- Hurkamp Park, next to the restrooms
- Maury playground
- Alum Springs Park
Caregivers help others to stay cool:
To prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke, experts recommend the following tips:- Drink more fluids than usual, and don't wait until you're thirsty to drink more fluids.
- Avoid alcohol or liquids that contain high amounts of sugar.
- Check on friends and neighbors, particularly those who are caring for young children and those who are elderly.
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible.
- Stay out of the sun. Find a shaded area where you can sit and relax, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Add a hat if you must be outside.
- Limit outdoor activities, especially at mid-day. If you exercise outdoors, move your workout to a morning or evening time, take it indoors to an air-conditioned environment, or try swimming, which is a great summer exercise.
- If you work outside, wear sunscreen and reapply frequently, pace your activity, stay hydrated and check on co-workers.
- Take cool showers or baths to cool down, particularly if you're unable to be in an air-conditioned location.
- Limit use of your oven, if possible. It will make your house hotter.
BrightStar Care of Fredericksburg / Springfield provides a full continuum of private home care services, including companionship, personal care, transportation, medication assistance, skilled nursing and more, to improve the lives of those living with disabilities.
Source: https://patch.com/virginia/fredericksburg/heat-index-soars-fredericksburg-makes-moves-urges-caution