You’re drenched in baby oil. Maybe a touch of iodine in the mix. The double Beatles album cover is enhanced with tin foil. You’re holding said album cover up to your chin for maximum tanning rays. But instead of a golden tan you wind up with that ridiculous V-neck sunburn. Any of that ring a bell? Knowing what we know now it’s hard to imagine baking in the sun so irresponsibly. But that was then, and you thought the sun and the heat were your friends.

When dealing with summer sun and extreme heat there are three facts to consider:

1)      There is a lot more information available about the risks of long-term sun exposure than there was in your heyday.

2)      Your body does not metabolize heat and regulate temperature the way it used to.

3)      You’re not as young as you used to be. Period.

The first two facts are a lot easier to process than the third. Wasn’t it just yesterday that you could be active all day in the heat and it never bothered you? Now, extreme heat overload can lead to serious consequences.

According to the National Institute on Aging, a branch of the National Institutes for Health (NIH), overexposure to sun and extreme heat can cause:

·         Heat Syncope – a sudden dizziness that can occur when you are active in hot weather, especially if you are on medication like beta-blockers.

·         Cramps – Overheating can lead to painful tightening or muscle spasms in your stomach, arms or legs.

·         Edema – Heat related edema can cause swelling in your ankles and feet.

·         Rash – Heavy sweating and heat can cause skin irritation that manifests as red clusters of small blisters that resemble raised pimples. It may sting, tingle or itch.

·         Exhaustion – Rapid pulse, clammy skin, thirst, dizziness, weakness and nausea are all symptoms of heat exhaustion and a warning to get yourself to a cool place.

·         Heat Stroke – Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Signs include fainting, confusion, flushed skin, strong rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse, and strange behavior.

·         Sunburn – Extreme sunburn can not only damage your skin but cause reactions like fever, chills, nausea and rash.

If you choose to be active outdoors during extreme heat, be sure to take these commonsense precautions.

·         Stay hydrated

·         Dress appropriately in loose-fitting, lightweight breathable clothing

·         Manage activities by enjoying the outdoors during the cooler times of day like early morning or evening. Look for shade where possible and encourage your group to take frequent breaks to cool off.

·         Apply a high SPF sunscreen generously and often.

·         Pay attention to your body. At the first sign heat is taking its toll, head indoors.

Summer at Overture is Cool, Calm and Comfortable

When it comes to surviving the dog days of summer, Overture’s senior living communities are the ultimate SPF.  For starters, air-conditioned apartments and public spaces provide a welcome respite from the heat. But Overture’s commitment to your summer fun, health and wellbeing goes beyond the brick and mortar. While the sun beats down, Overture will keep you busy, social, involved - and healthy - indoors. 

·         Choose from a full roster of indoor classes and activities.

·         Splash around in Overture’s Olympic sized pool.

·         Grab a few neighbors for a card game in one of the designated activity spaces.

·         Join the gang for happy hour.

·         Enjoy a movie afternoon with friends in the Overture theater.

·         Plan an intimate gathering in your beautifully appointed apartment.

·         Become part of an Overture book club. There will be snacks. And wine.

Book a tour at the Overture premier senior living community of your choice today. No matter how hot it gets outside, the temperature at Overture is always just right.