SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. (PRWEB) MAY 22, 2012

Summer is around the corner, and along with it periods of extreme heat and humidity that can adversely affect our health. Young children, senior citizens and those in frail health are likely to be more sensitive to these weather conditions, so families and caregivers looking out for them need to be more vigilant during the warmer months. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more people in the U.S. died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined from 1979-2003.

“The severity of heat disorders tends to increase with age,” said Sherwin Sheik, founder of CareLinx, a secure online community that helps connect families with compatible caregivers. “Hot weather conditions that may cause cramping or discomfort in younger people might cause severe heat exhaustion or heat stroke in someone over the age of 60. Seniors – and particularly homebound seniors – who don’t have the means or ability to immediately seek cooler conditions need to pay special attention to extreme heat conditions, as do their loved ones and caregivers.”

In recognition of National Heat Safety Awareness Day on Friday, May 25, CareLinx recommends these simple tips for seniors, those with serious medical conditions, and their caregivers to help prevent serious heat-related incidents:

  1. Hydrate. Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks that can actually cause your body to lose more fluid. If you take water pills, be sure to talk to your doctor about how much you should drink during hot weather.
  2. Keep it light. Wear as little clothing as necessary when at home. Clothes should be lightweight, light-colored and loose fitting.
  3. Stay cool. Stay in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall or movie theater. When at home, take cool baths or showers. Even a short cool down will help your body stay cool later.
  4. Be a buddy. Be sure to establish a regular check-in schedule. You and your buddy should talk at least twice a day during a heat wave.
  5. Be aware. The signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, tiredness, headache, nausea and fainting. Heat exhaustion can quickly turn into heat stroke, which is deadly. At the first signs of heat exhaustion, cool down and take a rest. If symptoms do not subside, contact a medical professional.