Press Releases

Health Tips For Summer's Vulnerable Population

Pompton Plains, NJ - June 4, 2007 - For most, summer means carefree days picnicking, swimming and enjoying activities under the sun. For seniors and people on certain medications, however, even a small dose of summer heat can have dangerous effects. NewBridge Services, Inc., a nonprofit provider of behavioral health and education programs and services, reminds these people to be extremely careful in the heat and offers tips for safely enjoying the sun while taking medications.

"People who are taking medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, psychotropics or antidepressants should be mindful. It is dangerous to expose themselves to the summer sun and heat without taking the proper precautions," said Dr. Norma Talbo, Medical Director, NewBridge. "They are especially prone to sunburn, heat exhaustion and heat stroke."

Dr. Talbo recommends that people taking these medications remember to apply sunblock generously and regularly, hydrate often, and spend only short amounts of time in direct sunlight.

Seniors, on the other hand, face other issues. They need to gauge their body temperature and breathing capacity.

"On a hot, humid day, when the air feels thick, many seniors have a difficult time breathing," said Camille Faith, Coordinator of Geriatric Outreach Services, NewBridge, "Since seniors are more susceptible to heat stroke, on really hot days, they should avoid going outdoors and, whenever possible, stay in an air conditioned room."

If you must go outside remember that heat combined with humidity increases the likelihood of heat-related illness such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Warning signs of heat stress include low energy, dizziness, nausea and headaches. If you are feeling any of these signs, it is best to get to a cool place as soon as possible and contact your physician if symptoms persist.

During this summer season, NewBridge offers the following tips to "Beat the Heat":

• Dress lightly - wear thin, loose, light-colored or white fabrics.
• Drink plenty of fluids - especially water - regularly and often but avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Take a cool shower or bath or go for a swim.
• Try to stay in the coolest room in the house, or take a trip to an air-conditioned mall, library or public building.
• Use air conditioning at least intermittently to keep the temperature below 90 degrees.
• Use a fan. Fans are most helpful at night to bring in cool air. Remember to open a window to create circulation. Fans directed outward to bring cool air from the basement or fans directed at your body to increase evaporation work better than fans bringing in hot air from the outside.
• Limit your physical activity to the coolest times of the day - early morning or late evening.

Enjoying recreational activities that summer offers is possible, but doing so responsibly is critical. Take precautions to lower your body temperature and stay hydrated. And remember, when the temperatures reach record highs - it is best to stay inside!

For more information on NewBridge programs and services, call toll-free (888) 746-9333.

About NewBridge Services
NewBridge Services, Inc., a non-profit community organization founded in 1963, provides innovative mental health, substance abuse, housing, children’s and senior services and education programs. Whether dealing with stress, grief, or substance abuse or in need of parenting, relationship or caregiving advice, NewBridge offers counseling programs, educational forums and life-enriching services to help people bring balance to their lives. For more information call 973-839-2520 or click here.