Be Aware of Heat Related IllnessEven for seniors who are used to living year round in the Florida heat and humidity, heat-related illnesses can be a real concern. Especially in Florida, with warm weather year round, and humidity always sneaking into the forecast for the day, it is a concern. Heat-related illnesses are something to be aware of, especially for senior citizens. Fortunately, heat-related illnesses are preventable, so being aware of them is a key to avoiding them. Here are some things to keep in mind as you try to steer clear of and navigate heat-related illnesses.Seniors Can Be Impacted MoreThough heat-related illness can strike anyone out in the blazing hot sun or stifling humidity, older adults are often more susceptible for several reasons and do not adjust as well to changes in temperatures as younger people. One of the reasons they may have difficulty is because of chronic illnesses that impact the way they react to heat and impact their perspiration ability. Many senior citizens also are taking medications that can impact their bodys reaction, especially by changing their ability to control their bodys temperature and their ability to sweat.Be Aware of These SignsTo help avoid the seriousness that can accompany heat-related illnesses, it is important to know the signs that heat may be impacting you negatively, and more than just simply tiring you out. If you notice any of these signs, move to a cool location or in some cases call for medical assistance. Heat-related illnesses can be serious, and even fatal, if not addressed.High body temperature of 103 degrees or moreHeavy sweatingHeadacheHot, dry, red or damp skin, or cold, pale and clammy skinConfusionDizzinessElevated pulseLoss of ConsciousnessMuscle crampsTiredness or weaknessWays to Avoid Heat IssuesTo help avoid heat-related illnesses, the first priority is to stay cool and hydrated. You, of course, can take a walk out in the Florida sun - after all thats probably part of the reason you live here - to enjoy the endless sunny days. But if its going to be blazing hot that day, you may want to take your walk earlier or later in the day. And no matter when you go, bring along something to keep you hydrated, such as water or drinks with electrolytes. An important tip is to hydrate even before you head out, so your body isnt already feeling dehydrated before you even hit the sun. Even if you dont feel thirsty, take some swigs to get the hydration into your body. If your doctor has limited the amount of liquids you can drink, make sure to check with your medical provider before changing anything up.If you are heading outside on an extra hot day, you may want to keep the exercise a little more low impact. Save the strenuous activity for cooler days, or cooler parts of the day. Loose fitting clothing is also a way to help avoid heat-related impacts, so that your clothes, socks or shoes do not trap in the heat. A wide-brimmed hat or a visor, though, are great accessories to have when you are heading out into the heat and the sunshine.Another accessory you will also probably want to wear is sunscreen. The CDC says that sunburn impacts your bodys ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. Avoiding sunburn with sunscreen can help with this issue.When its super hot out, make sure you are cooling off in air conditioning, especially if you are going to be spending part of the day outside. A fan often isnt enough to cool the body, especially on days with high humidity. A cooling shower or bath can also help if you feel overheated. An easy way to cool off is to run a cool cloth under water, and to put it on your head after you come inside. To prepare, you also can freeze a cloth before you leave for your activity, and bring it along to cool yourself on your journey.If you do notice any signs of a heat-related illness, move to a cool area. Some can be life threatening, so seek medical help immediately if needed.Visiting Angels Can HelpHeat-related illnesses are just one of the challenges seniors face. If you are looking for a professional caregiver to help your senior loved one with any of lifes challenges, Visiting Angels Sarasota can help. The caregivers from our trusted referral network can provide a variety of services to help your senior with everything from getting ready in the morning, to ensuring they drink enough liquid, to helping to steady them when they walk. We can help you focus on what is important in life, while helping to take care of everyday tasks for your senior and your family. Our professionally trained caregivers serve clients in Punta Gorda, North Fort Myers, Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Arcadia and surrounding areas. To learn more about our services at Visiting Angels, call us at 941-347-8288 or fill out an online form here.

Often the hardest part of doing something new is getting started, and that's especially true about exercise. This article from AARP makes it easy to get started with the most important exercise to help you age healthy: squats. Five or ten squats are easy to do while you wait for the coffee to brew or the microwave to finish heating.Even when we're healthy we sometimes need a little extra help with the house or errands. Visit our website at www.rosehillathome.com to learn more about how Rose Hill Stay-at-Home Services can help you or a loved one stay in independent and at home.

In the realm of senior therapy, the integration of music and arts stands out as a transformative approach to holistic well-being. Recent studies highlight the profound cognitive benefits that music can offer to seniors, from stimulating memory recall to enhancing overall cognitive function. Whether through familiar melodies that evoke cherished memories or the joy of learning a new instrument, music becomes a powerful tool for self-expression and connection, particularly for seniors facing cognitive decline. Simultaneously, engaging in visual and performing arts provides an avenue for creative expression, offering a sense of accomplishment and purpose. The emotional impact of these creative endeavors is equally significant, alleviating feelings of loneliness and fostering a sense of community through shared experiences in choir singing or art classes.In essence, the incorporation of music and arts into senior therapy transcends mere entertainment, becoming a vital aspect of promoting the overall well-being of older individuals. By tapping into the creative spirit, seniors can find avenues for cognitive stimulation, emotional connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. As society recognizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to senior care, the role of music and arts in therapeutic practices emerges as a valuable and enriching endeavor for the aging population, contributing to a fulfilling and vibrant later life.