The Seniors’ Centre for Excellence in north Wellington is urging seniors to be aware of the risks of extreme heat during these lazy, hazy days of summer.
Watch for symptoms of heat illness, which include dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst and decreased urination with unusually dark urine.
If seniors experience any of these symptoms during hot weather, they should immediately move to a cool place and drink fluids. Water is best.
Heat Stroke is a medical emergency, so seniors should call 911 if they are with someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.
While waiting for help, assist the person right away by moving them to a cool place if possible, applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing and fanning the person as much as possible.
If one’s home is extremely hot, try to avoid heat illness by visiting a local library, grocery store or swimming facility or take cool showers until feeling refreshed. People can also use a fan to help stay cool and aim the air flow in their direction.
Drink plenty of fluids; leave a glass of water by the sink as a reminder to drink more often. Remember: if eating less, seniors also need to increase their fluid consumption too.
Shingles vaccine
The seniors’ centre’s monthly calendar includes an information sheet provided by Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health on the shingles vaccine, including statistics on shingles and the new vaccine that is available.
Shingles can be excruciatingly painful, so centre officials are asking seniors to review the information sheet and speak to their family doctor to determine if this vaccine is right for them.
Art workshop
The seniors’ centre is offering another art workshop at the Palmerston Library on July 25 at 2pm.
Centre officials say trying new things is great for brain health, so seniors should not worry that they are not “the artistic type.”
Registration for the next workshop is limited and required to attend the event.
Congregate dining programs
The senior’s centre welcomes people of all faith denominations to its congregate dining programs, all of which are free, though the centre welcomes a donation towards food costs. The monthly dining programs are held from 12 to 2pm.
Coming events
“The Joy of Sketching” will be discussed on July 24 at Harriston Legion. This interactive program will offer various sketching techniques.
On July 26 at the Arthur United Church there will be a “Laughter Presentation.” Attendees will learn fun facts, including that a hearty laugh can burn calories
For more information about Seniors’ Centre for Excellence events or programs, call 519-638-1000.
