Summertime brings sunshine, warmth and longer days. However, people of advancing age are more vulnerable to the dangers of heat, sun exposure and dehydration.

With awareness and preventive measures, however, seniors can enjoy a healthy and active summer.

People age 65 and older can lose their sense of thirst, and tend to not drink enough. Older people also have less ability to perspire, which is a mechanism to release heat from the body.

In addition, many older people have chronic health problems (such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease) and may take medications that can make them more susceptible to dehydration and can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight.

People who are not used to spending time outdoors or exerting themselves in hot weather conditions may experience muscle spasms and abdominal pain during exercise or exertion.

They may develop fast, shallow breathing, heavy sweating, headache, and feeling dizzy or nauseous. These are signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion. If this happens, immediately stop the activity and rest in a cool, shaded place.

Lightly stretch or gently massage muscles to relieve spasms. Drink small sips of cool water – drinking too much may cause stomach upset.

If the person is dizzy and weak, have him or her lie down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, moist cloths and give sips of water.

To prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion, follow these simple tips:

– Drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

– Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

– Keep skin moist with a lotion or cream. Older skin is prone to dryness, and creams or lotions can help prevent normal water loss from the skin. Choose lotions, creams and cosmetic products that have ultraviolet (UV) protection added.

– Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater at least 30 minutes before going outdoors, and then every few hours afterwards. Remember, you also can be exposed to UV rays through glass windows.

– Wear sunglasses with total UV protection.

– Wear wide-brimmed hats and loose, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect the skin. When possible, stay in the shade when outdoors.

Donna Hitchcock, R.N., is the director of nursing at River’s Bend Health Care in South Point.