As many areas of the nation brace for the heat waves of summer, Dignity Memorial® Smart & Safe Living™ and Newhall-based Eternal Valley Memorial Park Mortuary encourage older adults to take precautionary measures in order to stay cool.

Although high temperatures and humidity can cause anyone to experience heat-related problems, seniors are among the most vulnerable. Awareness of prevention, symptoms and treatment of a heat-related illness can help older adults better enjoy their summer. In addition, family, friends and neighbors should make it a point to check on seniors during days of extreme heat.

• One of the best ways to prevent a heat-related illness is to keep the body hydrated. Non-alcoholic, sugar-free and decaffeinated fluids should be consumed continually throughout the day. Liquids high in sugar or caffeine should be avoided, as they increase body fluid loss.

• Seniors should restrict outdoor activity and exercise to cooler parts of the day, such as morning or evening, and rest time should be spent in the shade. Remember to wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.

• It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures without the proper amount of fluids. Symptoms usually include weakness, heavy sweating, dry mouth, paleness, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscle cramps, or cool, moist skin. The first treatment for heat exhaustion is to retreat from the sun into a cooler, shaded area. Drink plenty of beverages (non-alcoholic, sugar-free and decaffeinated), loosen clothing, and take a cool sponge bath or shower. Also get plenty of rest.

• A heat stroke is characterized by the body’s inability to regulate its temperature and to cool down. Heat strokes are life-threatening medical emergencies indicated by confusion, deliriousness, unconsciousness, high body temperature, hot and dry skin and a throbbing headache. Seek medical attention immediately if someone is exhibiting these symptoms. While waiting, cool the victim with any method possible, such as ice packs, fans or a shaded environment.

• The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency can also help seniors weather the summer with ways to reduce energy costs and keep homes cool. For helpful tips, go to http://www1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/pdfs/energy_savers.pdf.



Dignity Memorial Smart & Safe Living, which is sponsored locally by Eternal Valley Memorial Park Mortuary, was designed to help older adults lead safer lives. Among the program’s many topics are consumer fraud, cons and scams, home invasions and telephone fraud. For more information about Dignity Memorial Smart & Safe Living, call Eternal Valley Memorial Park Mortuary at (661) 259-0800 or visit www.eternalvalleymemorialpark.com.