Some like it hot. But it is very important to your health to stay cool. We have built in cooling systems so we can maintain a healthy temperature. If your body temperature changes only a few degrees it can make you very ill. The body uses blood flow, perspiration, and activity level to help regulate body temperature. It is known that the heat regulation systems in seniors is less functional than when we were younger.

We have all heard that men sweat and women glow, but the truth is we all perspire to help cool the body. It is true however that women have better external cooling systems. As they tend to have more sweat glands, men tend to sweat heavy in specific areas. Here are some helpful hints to help you stay cool:

First, limit physical activity in the midday or hottest time during the day. This can be accomplished by doing the "heavy" work in early morning or late afternoon and doing lighter work in the midday. Try to find the shade whenever possible. At times you will need to create your own shade or follow the shade during the day.

Make a habit of wearing light-colored clothes made of natural loosely woven fibers. Light colors reflect the sun and clothes made of natural fibers are cooler. Remember to always wear sunscreen. SPF 30 is good.

To fight fire you need lots of water. It is especially important to have lots of fluids so your body can use it for cooling. Experts are telling us to drink a gallon of fluid a day. With heat and physical activity we need to increase this amount.

It’s important to know that a variety of fluids are helpful. Drinking only water can affect your electrolyte levels. Experts tell us to drink a combination of juices and other beverages that contain carbohydrates and potassium. Keep in mind that caffeine and alcohol are powerful drugs that act as diuretics, actually depleting the body of much needed fluids.

Enjoy your summer. Remember when it’s hot it’s important to stay cool. Good judgment and planning will help you beat the heat and help your body stay cool all summer long.

For the safety of seniors, we carry a unique product designed to reduce your body heat and increase your comfort in hot weather. It is the LiquiCool Bandanna, and you'll find it in our Hobbies & Gardening department.