6 TIPS TO BEAT THE ARIZONA HEAT
Phoenix and heat are as common of a pair as Minneapolis and subzero temperatures. Heat is such a part of life at our senior living center in Scottsdale, Arizona, that many people brush it off as one of the many facts of life. However, heat in summer can cause serious health issues. Extreme heat was responsible for causing 552 deaths in Arizona during 2021, while sending nearly 3,000 area residents to an emergency room for treatment. However, the Arizona heat in summer does not have to be a life-threatening weather event.
At our assisted living facility in Fountain Hills, we educate residents about six tips to beat the Arizona heat.
Stay Hydrated
A good rule of thumb to beat the Arizona heat is to drink at least two liters of water a day, even if you plan to remain indoors for the majority of your day. Carry water with you during the day trips scheduled at our senior living center in Scottsdale.
Wear Proper Clothing
The fashion statement made to beat the Arizona heat involves wearing lightweight, lightly colored apparel. Lighter colors reflect some of the sun’s energy to prevent the body from overheating. Wear a hat, as well as apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
Change How You Eat
Your dining habits need to change during one of Arizona’s well-publicized heatwaves. Eat much smaller meals and eat them more often throughout the day. Avoid food high in protein content because these types of food generate metabolic heat.
Take It Easy
Complete less strenuous activities during the hottest time of day, which typically runs from noon until 6 p.m. If you plan to participate in a physical activity, do it during the coolest time of day that runs from 4am to 7am
Central Air is Your Friend
Remaining indoors during an Arizona heat wave represents one of the most effective ways to beat the desert heat. An air-conditioned room ensures you maintain a healthy body temperature, as well as helps your body slow down to store much-needed energy. Our assisted living facility in Fountain Hills operates a powerful central air conditioning system.
Know the Weather
By watching the television in your room or a TV positioned in one of the common areas of our senior living center in Scottsdale, you should be able to stay up to date with area weather conditions. The National Service Website keeps you informed as well about any heat-related watches and warnings.
What is the Difference Between Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion?
You should be aware of two heat-related illnesses that increase in numbers during Arizona summers: Heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is the more dangerous of the two heat-related illnesses because the body overheats to a potentially life-threatening temperature. Victims of heat exhaustion exhibit signs of heavy perspiration, while victims of heatstroke display deep red-colored skin. Excessive thirst is another characteristic of heat exhaustion that eventually can lead to muscle cramps. The most serious cases of heat stroke send victims into convulsions.
At our assisted living facility in Fountain Hills, we keep our residents safe during heat waves by following six tips to beat the Arizona heat. Discover all of the healthcare initiatives implemented by MorningStar of Fountain Hills by scheduling a tour of our assisted living facility.