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SANTA ANA, Calif., August 15, 2002 –The County
of Orange Community Services Agency/ Office on
Aging, advises older adults to keep cool this
summer to avoid serious illness or worse. Older
adults are at high risk for developing heat-related
illnesses because their ability to respond to
summer heat becomes more difficult. The Office
on Aging, Information & Assistance department,
800-510-2020, offers various resources and information
for older adults on ways to beat the heat.
According to the National Institute on Aging , it does not have to be 100
degrees outside for an elderly person to be at risk. Both an individual’s
general health and/or lifestyle may increase the threat of a heat-related
illness. The best thing to do during scorching, hot days is to keep cool and
out of the sun. Drink plenty of water, shower, lie down and rest in a cool
place. Try to avoid physical activity and heavy clothing, stick to natural
fabrics such as cotton. Lifestyle factors also can increase risk, including
extremely hot living accommodations, lack of transportation, overdressing,
visiting overcrowded places and not understanding weather conditions.
The National Institute on Aging recommends that older people should stay indoors
on especially hot and humid days. Cover windows when they are exposed to direct
sun; keep curtains, blinds or shades drawn. People without fans or air
conditioners should go to shopping malls, movie theaters and libraries. Friends
or relatives should provide transportation on particularly hot days.
Communities, area agencies, religious groups and senior citizen centers also
provide such services.
The Office on Aging, which provides resources to nearly 400,000 seniors
throughout the County, is dedicated to improving the lives of older adults
living in Orange County. For more information about senior services and programs,
call 1-800-510-2020.
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