Tips To Help Active Adults Avoid Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot!

The thermometer has reached or exceeded 90 degrees several times in the past week or so, which is normal for Georgia in July and August, but that doesn’t mean you need to be outside in the heat. Taking the proper precautions during summer heat is important to your health and well-being, and are easy to do.

Health experts advise everyone to avoid spending unnecessary time outdoors during the peak hours of heat during the day. The safest time to be outdoors during extreme heat is early in the morning or in the evening. (In metro Atlanta, daily heat “peaks” around 3 pm).

With today’s energy efficient climate control systems, staying comfortable indoors is both easy and affordable. Energy Star experts recommend setting your air conditioning at 78 degrees when you are at home during the day, and using ceiling fans to circulate the air throughout your home. When you are at work or away from home, set the temperature at 85 degrees. At night, 82 degrees is the recommended temperature for sleeping; use fans to keep air moving throughout the space.

Experts also recommend taking a cool shower when you feel overheated, to lower your body temperature and reduce the risk of heat-related stress on the body.

Whether you are outdoors or indoors, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to feel cool. If you feel tired, don’t push yourself to finish tasks; resting during the hottest part of the day is actually good for you.

Stay hydrated by consuming 12 to 14 8-ounce glasses of water or other low- or no-sugar, decaffeinated, non-alcholic beverages each day, and eat light meals that help you maintain your energy without causing you to feel tired or too full.

If you are outside during the hottest part of the day, be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness, such as:

Heat Exhaustion

• extreme perspiration
• fatigue
• muscle aches
• weakness
• dizziness
• headaches
• nausea or vomiting
• a fast, weak pulse
• moist, cool skin

Heat Stroke

• elevated temperature
• red, hot skin
• no perspiration
• disorientation or loss of consciousness

If you, or someone you know, experiences these symptoms during or after exposure to extreme heat, seek medical attention immediately, and lower body temperature by applying cool cloths and offering small sips of cool water.

At Windsong, we encourage safe outdoor activities all year long, with wide, walkable sidewalks, inviting front porches, and private courtyards. Each Windsong community also boasts unique amenities, which may include a clubhouse, walking trails, amphitheater, or other outdoor features.

Welcome to Windsong, Where Life’s A Breeze!