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Some Tips for Staying Cool and Healthy | |
| By DR. MICHAEL L. FREEDMAN Associated Press NEW YORK - Stay cool. With the hot weather upon us, it's good to be reminded of the basic preventive measures that should be taken to avoid the summertime problems which are most common among older people, especially those with chronic conditions. Those problems range from simple discomfort to heat stroke, which can be life-endangering. Things to be done when the temperature goes above 90: - Stay out of the sun during the hottest hours, from noon to 4 p.m. - Drink lots of liquids such as water, sports drinks or juices, but not caffeine-containing beverages or alcoholic drinks, which can promote fluid loss. - Outdoors, wear light, loose-fitting clothes, with a large-brimmed hat if possible. Don't take the shirt off. Even if it's sweaty, a shirt is better for comfort than bare skin. - If you stay in sunlight for a prolonged period, wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Use a broad-spectrum product that protects against both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B radiation. - Do exercise or other major physical activities in the early morning or evening. - Eat light. Digesting heavy meals can raise body temperature. - If you have an air conditioner, set it between 75 and 80. If you don't, take cool showers and visit air-conditioned places such as theatres and malls. EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Michael L. Freedman is the Diane and Arthur Belfer Professor of Geriatric Medicine and Director of Geriatrics at New York University Medical Center. Copyright 1996 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | |