Article

Living With the Dog Days of Summer

Living With the Dog Days of Summer

It often seems as if summer lasts from Easter to Halloween. But we typically see the hottest of the hot days (the “dog days” of summer) in late July and August. There are several things that can be done to beat the heat this summer. With a little diligence and preparation, we should be able to enjoy these dog days of summer safely.

July 28, 2023
Living With the Dog Days of Summer
Important Disclosure: Content on our website and in our newsletters is for informational purposes only. The information provided may (or may not) directly apply to your situation. We recommend that readers work directly with a professional advisor when making decisions in the context of their specific situation.

It often seems as if summer lasts from Easter to Halloween. But we typically see the hottest of the hot days (the “dog days” of summer) in late July and August. And this raises some concern for keeping safe and cool. Seniors may be at higher risk of heat-related maladies as they are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature. Additionally, as we grow older, our bodies become less efficient at regulating body temperature. Certain health conditions and medications can also make it more difficult for the body to regulate its temperature or to perspire.

Fortunately, there are several things we can do to stay safe and cool, even in the midst of summer’s hottest days.

Stay Hydrated

For many our sensitivity to heat dulls as we age, so does our awareness of thirst. This, along with our body’s ability to conserve water as we grow older, put seniors at greater risk of dehydration.

Summer heat adds to the risk, because on hot days, the body loses water more quickly. Here are some tips to staying hydrated this summer.

  • Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to take in fluids. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these can cause the body to lose even more fluid.
  • Eat lots of fresh fruit, a wonderful source of fluids – not everything has to be water.
  • Add fresh lemon or lime to your water to add a little flavor.
  • Use water to dilute fruit juices, making them last longer and increasing your fluid intake.
  • Get creative! Make “mocktails,” like non-alcoholic daiquiris and pina coladas.

If you are on a fluid-restricted diet, consult your physician about how to get the fluids you need during the hot summer months.

Other Tips to Beat the Heat

Here are some other ways to beat the heat this summer:

  • Keep your home safe and comfortable by running the air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day and by letting in cool air in the early morning and late evening hours.
  • If your home isn’t air-conditioned, take a break during the hottest part of the day by going to a movie, shopping at an indoor mall, or visiting a library.
  • Dress in lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing, make of natural fabrics, like linen or cotton.
  • If you must go outside (gardening, errands), plan this for the early morning hours, when it’s coolest.
  • Take a cool shower or bath.
  • Get plenty of rest.

Enjoy your summer!

With a little diligence and preparation, we should be able to enjoy these dog days of summer safely.

Other content you may like

  • Money Mistakes that Young Professionals Can Make

    Money Mistakes that Young Professionals Can Make

    January 16, 2024
    We all need to be mindful of our finances and avoid common money mistakes that can have long-term consequences. Being aware of these pitfalls early in your career can build a life-long foundation of healthy habits with your money. Here are some proactive tips that can help you and your family create a more secure financial future.
    Read this Article
  • Financial Resolution Ideas

    Your 2021 New Year’s (Financial) Resolutions

    January 6, 2021
    Cleaning up personal finances remains one of the top resolutions every New Year. But we all know what happens to most such self-promises, so here’s a handy to-do list for every month to cultivate better financial health.
    Read this Article
  • Nonfungible Tokens NFTs

    How Nonfungible Tokens Work and Where They Get Their Value

    May 11, 2021
    NFTs are gaining momentum in the world of digital economic innovation, through blockchain technology. Wondering what it’s all about? Here’s an explanation from a cryptocurrency expert.
    Read this Article
  • May 29th is a Nationwide Celebration of 529 Day

    May 26, 2021
    As higher education costs continue to soar, discover the benefits of a 529 College Savings Plan, an often overlooked tax benefit and savings alternative.
    Read this Article
  • The link you have selected is located on another server. The linked site contains information that has been created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of this organization. We do not endorse, approve, certify, or control any linked websites, their sponsors, or any of their policies, activities, products, or services. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained therein. Visitors to any linked websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until they have consulted with an independent financial professional. Please click “Continue to Link” to leave this website and proceed to the selected site.
    phone-handset