While beautiful, summers in Santa Fe are hot and sunny with temperatures typically in the mid-80s or higher so it is important to remember that seniors in particular can easily become overheated. As statistics unfortunately show, during 1999-2009 “approximately 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were adults over 65 years old.”
Experts explain this is mainly due to the fact that as we age, we are less efficient at regulating our body temperature. When people over the age of 65 heat up, they do not sweat as much as they did when they were younger and sweating is one of the body’s most important heat-regulation features. Seniors also store fat differently, which makes them more prone to heat illnesses and as temperatures heat up, so does their internal body temperature especially in hot environments or in the direct sun. Another reason why seniors become overheated is their thirst sensation has lessened, which can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness. Instead of feeling thirsty, many seniors just feel tired and dragged out. Even the kidneys do not conserve body water as well, which can cause problems. Furthermore it is important to know certain drugs can cause dehydration including diuretics and medications for blood pressure and heart disease. Diet can also play a role becoming dehydrated, which is why food high in sodium should be avoided. If you are a senior or help to care for one, please remember to drink water throughout the day, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, and to stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks. At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we provide residents with a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need. Our deliciously prepared meals take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions with choices that include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for our residents to self-manage. Please visit our website for more details and contact information. MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Situated on the west side of town, we invite you to give us a call or visit our website for more details about unparalleled senior living in Santa Fe, NM. Source: cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
MorningStar
MorningStar Senior Living offers assisted living, memory care and respite (short-term) care. Our communities have graciously-appointed assisted living suites, as well as beautiful and spacious private suites for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Morningstar Senior Living's award-winning architecture, together with amenities that foster a lifestyle of comfort and wellness, make our residents’ retirement years as carefree as possible. Our activities and programs are enriching, and our care services first-class, but what truly sets us apart from other senior living communities is the love beneath our roof. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in your area, contact us to schedule a tour. Archives
June 2023
Categories
All
|