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YourHub.com \\ Vero Beach \\ Stories \\ Senior Scene

Lighten up in the Heat!

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Contributed by: Chris Loftus on 7/9/2008

Summer is upon us with longer days and hotter sun! Being from Michigan, I always looked forward to the summer. It seemed I had more energy because I could be outdoors, doing all the activities I love. Living in Florida has taught me to reverse that pattern some. My outside activities are now accomplished in the early morning and/or after 5:30 pm. I find I don't have as much energy when I'm feeling like a wet rag.

It's important that individuals take care in the heat, but it doesn't need to stop you in your tracks in preventing you from doing the things you enjoy. While it is not new, the message is the same; take some added precautions in the summer to your exposure to the intense heat and sun.

- Drink cool, non-alchololic beverages. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink when the weather is hot. Also, avoid extremely cold liquids because they can cause cramps.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath
- I often find individuals keep thermostats set high to save money so that their homesbecome more dangerous inside than being outside. Keep the thermostat set at no higher than 80 inside during the summer. To save on utility bills, close the blinds or curtains from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. A house remain cooler.
- Wear lightweight clothing. Dark colors in the summer can add to your discomfort. You live in Florida - get colorful in the summer!
- If possible, remain indoors during the heat of the day. If you are finding yourself getting a bit stir crazy, go the Library or to the Mall.
- Run your errands in the morning or late in the afternoon. While your car may have air conditioning, the energy going from car to store to car in the afternoon heat can make your feel like that wet rag I talked about.
- Rest if you find yourself struggling for air or feeling wilted. Now you can better understand why the Southerners moved slower in the heat before air conditioning! So take a little siesta!
- Eat lighter meals rather than heavy 'winter menus' such as meat, potatoes or heavy soups. Salads, fresh fruit and vegetables are not only good for all of us, they will not leave the feeling of being 'heavy' from food. Lighten up your menu!

Enjoy the summer, the slower pace of our community and the longer days! Lighten up!

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