by Flora Qualls, Your Cigna Agent in Oklahoma City – [email protected]
Long, sunny days can be pure pleasure. For many older adults, however, danger can lurk in high temperatures. Fortunately, we all can take steps to ensure summer safety.
Older adults tend to be more susceptible to heat-related conditions, often because they have pre-existing medical conditions or take prescription or over-the-counter drugs that limit the bodyâs ability to sweat and control its temperature, said Dr. Joseph B. âJ.B.â Sobel, chief medical officer for Cignaâs Medicare businesses, which serve hundreds of thousands of seniors across the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that more than 650 people in the United States die each year from heat-related illnesses. The majority are people 65 and older; other risk factors are living alone, being without access to air conditioning, and having underlying health conditions that put them at elevated risk.
However, heat-related illnesses and deaths can often be prevented. With that in mind, Dr. Sobel provides the following tips to help older adults stay safe during the summer.
Check the forecast each day. That way you know exactly what to expect. Pay special attention to heat advisories or warnings and take them seriously.
Stay indoors, in air conditioning, during excessive heat. If your home isnât air-conditioned, spend the heat of the day someplace that is, such as a shopping mall, a movie theater, a library, or a family memberâs or friendâs house. In many communities, senior centers, churches, and social service organizations provide cooling centers when the temperatures rise. If you arenât running your air conditioning because you need help paying your utility bill, resources may be available to you. Go to
https://cignacommunity.findhelp.com/ and enter your ZIP code to learn about programs that are available in your community.
Make sure to hydrate. Drink more water than usual. Donât wait until youâre thirsty to drink. Avoid drinks containing alcohol.
Dress for the heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothes in light colors.
Donât overdo it. Limit strenuous activity. Take frequent breaks. Move slowly.
Remember to apply sunscreen. The majority of skin cancer cases are found in people older than 65. Also, sunburned skin makes it more difficult for your body to cool down. To reduce risk, you should use a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher that the label says âblocks UVA and UVBâ or has the words âbroad spectrum.â Reapply every two hours.
Avoid the hottest part of the day. Itâs safer to go out in the morning or the evening.
Monitor your medications. Some widely used medicines, including some available without a prescription, may affect your bodyâs ability to control its temperature or to sweat. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.
If you become overheated, take action right away. Go to a cool place, rest, and drink plenty of water. Symptoms of heat-related illness include muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. If symptoms like these donât go away or get worse, seek medical care.
In closing, Dr. Sobel advises caregivers to stay vigilant during hot weather and check on loved ones regularly. If you donât live close to your loved one, make sure to have the name and number of a neighbor you can contact if needed.
For information about Cigna Healthcare email me at [email protected] or call me at 405-432-6725.
Cigna Corporation is a global health service company dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and peace of mind of those we serve. Cigna delivers choice, predictability, affordability, and access to quality care through integrated capabilities and connected, personalized solutions that advance whole person health. All products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth companies or their affiliates, and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other related products.
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The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.
