By Janet Tessier, Care Navigation Team Researcher
Summer is in full swing, and so are the hot temperatures and humidity! It is not always possible to stay in an air-conditioned setting. Here are some suggestions and tools that could make being out in the heat safer and more bearable for everyone.
Cooling towels are small, reusable, mesh-like, breathable towels that you get wet, wring out, and place around your neck to keep cool. They can stay cool for up to 3 hours.
Gel icepacks placed around the neck are reusable with washable cloth covers in various styles and easy-to-use closures.
There are battery-powered and cell phone-powered portable, handheld fans that are small, lightweight, and easy to use.
Large, cloth-covered, reusable ice packs can be placed flat on a lap or torso.
Hydrating is vital in hot temperatures. There are a variety of drinking containers, with or without straws, sip tops, non-spill lids, insulated for temperature control, and with or without a handle. Consider getting a drinking container that is slim enough to fit in the pocket of a backpack, wheelchair, or walker tote and is easy to hold.
If you need to wear socks, consider purchasing cooling socks, long favored by runners and other athletes. Some socks have a ‘wicking’ action, drawing sweat away from the skin.
When contemplating an outing in the heat, also consider that some medications can make one more sensitive to sun exposure and less able to sweat, which is the body’s natural cooling mechanism. Wearing a hat and having shade available will be beneficial.
We hope you and your loved ones can enjoy making some sweet Summertime memories this season and do it all in comfort, good health, and safety.
Note: The VirtuALZ blog (FYI) is strictly a news and information website about Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias and life over 60. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The VirtuALZ Blog (FYI) is intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Alzheimer’s disease.
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