Warm Weather Safety

As more hot weather approaches, it is wise to take a moment to prepare for hot and humid weather ahead. Both can be a risk factor for several serious health concerns, including dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Here are some precautions and considerations you can take to reduce the risk of your loved one experiencing a heat-related emergency:

• Check that air conditioners are in working order. Often, dust and debris can accumulate inside window air conditioning units during the winter months, affecting their performance. Take a moment to clean the air filter and any loose debris on the outside of the compressor unit. Demand for air conditioner repair will soar when the first heat wave hits - act early! (Need assistance getting an air conditions? Check out NYC's cooling assistance program.)

• Encourage your loved one to use the air conditioner. As we age, our bodies can become less aware when we are getting too hot and may not feel the need to use air conditioning.

• Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Typically, this is between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM during the summer months.

• Wear loose fitting and light-colored clothing. Extra layers, tight-fitting, and dark-colored clothing can exacerbate the effects of hot weather. A wide-brimmed hat can also be helpful for keeping sun out of the eyes and face.

• Drink plenty of water. Experts suggest drinking a minimum of 64 ounces per day, or eight 8-ounce glasses. Other fluids, such as coffee, tea, soda, and juices, may have a diuretic or dehydrating effect. If your loved one is reluctant to drink water, you can add a slight flavor by immersing foods such as lemon wedges or cucumber slices in the water and serve over ice.

• Use sunscreen if going outdoors. The impact of sunshine exposure goes beyond heat and humidity. Be sure to apply sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Take care to reach areas like the ears, nose, and back of the neck with sunscreen.

• Be alert for the signs of heat-related illness. These include heavy sweating, pale skin, headache, nausea, dizziness, fainting, weakness, and muscle cramps. Other symptoms may include a rapid, weak pulse, thirst, irritability, and a high body temperature. In severe cases, like heatstroke, symptoms can include confusion, disorientation, and even loss of consciousness. Heat-related illness is a medical emergency. If you suspect heat-related illness, call 911.

New York Memory Center and its vehicles all have air conditioning. It will be turned on and in use during the program day during hot and humid weather. We encourage our members to bring a light sweater or cardigan that is easy to put on or take off, because air conditioning may make some people feel chilled. (NYC Cooling Centers)

Published in the Memory Center newsletter June 2025.