Ways to beat the heat in Leisure World

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Older adults are at higher risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. As people age, it becomes more difficult for the body to regulate its temperature, according to the National Institute on Aging.

People’s ability to regulate their temperature can also be affected by medical conditions and prescription medicines that alter the body’s ability to control temperature or sweat.

Too much heat is not safe for anyone. When feeling overheated, it is important to be cautious and get relief quickly to avoid a heat-related illness that could cause serious health issues.

Where to cool down:

1. The Aquatic Center is open from 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week. Users must vacate the pool and hot tub by 8:45 p.m. to allow for closing procedures. The facility is for authorized residents only; no guests are allowed.

2. Clubhouses 1 and 6 are official cooling centers in a heat wave. All clubhouses are air

HEAT ILLNESS, page 3 HEAT ILLNESS

from page 1

conditioned but use is subject to reservations. People can also enjoy air conditioning in the Clubhouse 3 Lobby, as long as there is not a club reservation.

4. The Leisure World Library is another air-conditioned venue where residents can check out books and surf the web while cooling down. The library is open 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on weekdays and until 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

Avoiding dehydration

Dehydration can further the effects of heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses.

As the summer season approaches, residents should familiarize themselves with the locations of vending machines and water fountains where they can hydrate themselves if needed.

All clubhouses have drinking fountains. Fountains are also available at the top and middle sections on either side of the Amphitheater.

Vending machines are available on the north side of Clubhouse 3 and in the hospitality area inside Clubhouse 6.

What to do if you feel faint

Heat exhaustion is one of many heat-related syndromes, which vary in seriousness ranging from mild to possibly life-threatening.

It happens when the body loses too much water or salt, usually because of heavy sweating or dehydration. It can begin suddenly or over time, according to the Mayo Clinic, and usually happens after working, exercising or playing in the heat.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include mild confusion; dizziness; fatigue; headache; cool, moist skin with goose bumps; heavy sweating; faintness; weak, rapid pulse; low blood pressure after standing up; muscle cramps; nausea or vomiting; extreme thirst; and decreased urine output.

Untreated heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is a life-threatening condition.

If you suspect that someone is experiencing heat exhaustion:

• Move the person out of the heat and into a shady or air-conditioned place.

• Lay the person down and raise the legs and feet slightly.

• Remove tight or heavy clothing.

• Have the person sip chilled water, a sports drink containing electrolytes or another nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine.

• Cool the person by spraying or sponging with cool water and fanning.

• Monitor the person carefully.

Call 911 immediately if someone faints, becomes agitated, is confused, has a seizure, or is unable to drink.

Before leaving home, check the weather to ensure you're dressed appropriately for the temperature. On particularly hot days, it's also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle.

The Aquatic Center is open 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week. The facility is for authorized residents only; no guests are allowed.