During the holidays, seniors must remember one thing. Otherwise, the body weakens.

In the summer, the body of an elderly person is particularly vulnerable to overheating and dehydration. Seniors often do not feel thirst as much as younger people, and they also struggle with chronic circulatory system diseases, diabetes, and hypertension, which increase the risk of complications during hot weather.

High temperatures can lead to weakness, dizziness, heart rhythm disturbances, and even heat stroke. It is therefore worth implementing simple but effective rules: proper hydration , a light diet, and avoiding the sun during the hottest hours. The first of these is particularly important.

Exposure to the sun and high temperatures leads to rapid overheating of the body, which disrupts its natural thermoregulation. In the heat, the body sweats intensively, losing water and electrolytes, which results in:

• dehydration
• muscle weakness
• dizziness
• pressure drop

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The heart and circulatory system work harder to cool the body. UV radiation additionally damages the skin and can also accelerate the aging process of cells. Prolonged exposure to the sun without proper protection can result in heat stroke and serious weakening of the entire body.

One of the most important elements of prevention in the summer is regular drinking of water . Just small sips, regularly, even without feeling thirsty. Isotonic drinks or homemade water with electrolytes can also help. Coffee and alcohol, which promote dehydration, should be limited.

In addition to hydration, diet is also important . It is best to eat easily digestible, based on fresh vegetables and fruits, such as cucumbers, strawberries or watermelon. It is worth avoiding heavy, fried dishes, and instead reaching for cold soups, cocktails or salads more often. Clothes should be light, airy and made of natural materials .

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Leaving the house, if possible, should be limited to the morning or evening hours. Seniors should stay in cool rooms between 11 and 17. It is worth airing the apartment in the morning and evening, and covering the windows during the day. If the house does not have air conditioning, fans, wet towels placed on the forehead and neck, or cool baths are helpful.

In case of weakness or severe dizziness, you should immediately call an ambulance , while cooling your body and drinking plenty of fluids.

During a heatwave, especially when loved ones are at work or on vacation, simple neighborly care is of great importance. It is worth checking whether an elderly neighbor or a lonely neighbor is feeling well.

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Sometimes all it takes is a quick phone call to make sure everything is okay. Such a conversation can help you notice the first signs of feeling unwell.

It is also a good idea to prepare a bottle of water, a supply of medicine or to lend a fan.