We have been loving all of the sunshine beautiful White Rock has been getting lately! The White Rock community becomes even more vibrant once the months warm up, and we love seeing all of the residents out and about.
While we love the sunshine, this heat has been higher than . Heat and sun are powerful forces that are important to be mindful of. Here are some tips from Pacific Carlton Retirement Living Community on how you can protect yourself from the heat.
Protect your skin and eyes from the sun
Wearing sunscreen is extremely important, even when it’s not this hot and sunny out. It’s recommended that SPF 15 or higher sunscreen be worn every time you go outside. Just as we want to protect our skin, we also want to protect our eyes! Eyes are very susceptible to the sun’s UV rays, so wearing sunglasses when outside is beneficial to avoid irritation or damage.
Stay hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water, but it is the most important thing to do in the heat. Drinking enough fluids and eating enough fruits and vegetables are key to staying hydrated during these hotter months. Remember that caffeinated and alcoholic beverages are dehydrating, so you should minimize how much you consume.
Buy a fan or AC unit
While your retirement home in White Rock is temperature regulated, having an additional source of cool air can be helpful in staying protected from the heat. Buying a small table fan can increase air flow and keep you feeling fresh during these warmer months. If you are able, buying a small air conditioning unit can also be a great way to keep your space comfortable.
Wear lighter clothes
Wearing clothes that are thick or bulky could result in you or your senior loved one experiencing constriction of your joints and over-production of sweat. Avoiding tight and heavy clothes made of natural fibres, such as cotton, will work best to keep you cool.
Reduce strenuous activities – especially during peak hours
While this nice weather makes you want to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, strenuous activities should not be done for long periods of time. You may feel more exhausted after being active in the heat, risking injury. We reccomend enjoying outdoor activity before or after peak hours. During the summer, 10 am to 4 pm is considered “peak hours” as the sun is very strong and can increase risk of burning, dehydration, and feeling fatigued. Instead, we recommend doing indoor activities, such as playing brain games.
Know the signs of heat stroke
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness, occurring when the body can no longer control its temperature. Following the tips above will help reduce the chance of you or your senior loved one getting heat stroke, but it is important to know when medical assistance is needed. If you are experiencing disorientation, confusion, headaches, nausea, dry skin, and a rapid pulse, you could have heat stroke and should seek medical attention immediately.
—
If you’re looking for a VRS seniors retirement community that offers a variety of recreational activities, we are here for you. Feel free to contact us to inquire if we offer assisted living services at this VRS location. Call (604) 531-1160 to arrange a tour at one of VRS’ warm and friendly independent seniors communities.