Due to climate change, we have been experiencing extreme weather changes, especially when heat waves strike. This can cause heat strokes and death in some cases. People who are more prone to these health issues include the elderly, kids, people who are weight and suffer from chronic diseases, such as hepatic, kidney disease and diabetes, to name a few. In this article, we have shared some tips that will help you deal with extreme temperatures and maintain your health. Read on to find out more.
Drink Plenty of Liquids
Eat Lighter Meals
It's better to eat several light meals rather than one or two heavy meals. It's better to avoid spicy foods as well.
Sit in an Air-Conditioned Room
It's better that you spend most of your time in an air-conditioned room. If you don't have an AC in your home, you may go to nearby supermarkets, shopping centers, museums, and cinemas.
Avoid Prolonged Exposure to the Sun
It's not a good idea to spend a lot of time in the sun, especially between 10 am and 8 pm. However, if you have to get out during this time of the day, make sure you put on your protective gear, such as sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen, to name a few.
Don't go to the Beach in the Middle of the Day
If you are over the age of 60, you should not go to the beach. The same goes for kids under the age of three. It's better to go there in the morning or later afternoon.
Get Lukewarm Baths
If possible, you should get lukewarm baths daily. This is important to normalize your body temperature and keep yourself free of bodily odors all day long.
Avoid Physical Outdoor Activities
It's not a good idea to engage in outdoor activities that need you to spend a lot of physical effort. This includes gardening and sports like cycling or basketball.
Use an Air Purifier
Close shutters to prevent heat from getting into your home. However, you can open the windows in the evening when the sun is about to set. This is significant if you want fresh air to get in and make your indoor environment healthier. It's a good idea to use a good air purifier as well.
Check on your Loved Ones
Don't forget to check on your family, friends, and neighbors. You should ask about their health status, especially the ones who are isolated, elderly, dependent or mentally fragile. You should help them over their difficulties during the hot days.
Long story short, we suggest that you follow these simple tips to beat the heat waves and avoid a lot of respiratory health issues. This way you can be on the safe side and get through the summer months safe and sound.
In the height of the pandemic, everybody wants to stay healthy and improve their health, especially their respiratory system. COVID-19 may be the current most infectious disease feared by many, but it’s not the only one that your lungs need to be ready for.
Some respiratory illnesses that can endanger your or your senior loved one’s health include:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (e.g., bronchitis and emphysema)
Asthma
Pneumonia
Lung cancer
Pleural effusion
Here are some tips on how senior living community residents improve and protect their respiratory health.
1. Avoid Exposure to Cigarette Smoke.
Seniors should quit and avoid cigarette or tobacco smoking at all costs. This is because it endangers not only your health, but also others who inhale the nicotine-laced smoke around you.
According to studies, being a secondhand smoker (inhaling tobacco and cigarette smoke without using the product itself) increases your chances of getting lung cancer or lung infection by 30%. So, avoid this by spending less time with smokers or asking them to go outside before they light one up.
2. Stay Away from Air Pollution.
Both indoor (dust, dirt) and outdoor (pollen, smoke from vehicles) air pollution have severe repercussions on your respiratory system. It can irritate and slowly damage your airways, putting you at significant risk for developing chronic lung diseases. You can prevent inhaling these pollutants by:
Keeping your room clean and well-ventilated.
Using organic and non-toxic cleaning materials.
Using a dehumidifier or air purifier for air-conditioned rooms.
Using exhaust fans inside your home.
Washing your hands with soap and water after going out.
Practicing proper hygiene by brushing your teeth 2 to 3 times a day and never skipping your dental check-ups.
Besides protecting you from the coronavirus, wearing a mask outside also blocks some outdoor air pollutants from getting into your lungs.
3. Get vaccinated.
Seniors aged 65 and above should get vaccinated yearly with a flu vaccine. It protects you from contracting the flu during its season, thus preserving the health of your lungs. Furthermore, you should also ask your doctor about your qualifications for the pneumonia vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine.
4. Stay Active.
Regular exercise, even low-impact ones, can strengthen your lungs and protect them from infectious diseases. Over time, regular physical activity makes the heart and lungs stronger, allowing both organs to be more efficient in supplying you with oxygen.
Improve the health of your respiratory system by focusing on doing aerobic exercises for 20 to 30 minutes five days a week. You can try these senior-friendly activities:
Sweat-inducing household chores
Workouts that include breathing techniques.
Many senior living communities, like Heritage Woods, also offer plenty of resident activities all year round. Refer to our calendar to see what activities you can get involved in and stay active.
5. Get Regular Check-Ups.
Lastly, never miss your doctor’s appointments. Your regular visits to your GP allow them to keep track of your overall health condition. They can do several tests that can determine the strength of your body, including your respiratory system.
So, do yourself and your loved ones a favor by maximizing the transportation services offered by your senior living community. Get your schedule and relay it to them, so they can drive you to and from the hospital. Moreover, they can get a caregiver or staff to escort seniors who need support.
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