Ensuring that elderly people live healthy, happy lives and minimize illness is not only the wish of the elderly themselves, but also the wish of their families and society as a whole.
The recent hot weather has led to an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment and hospitalization at the provincial general hospital, especially the elderly. According to doctors at the hospital, the summer heatwaves, with their sudden and prolonged periods of intense heat, significantly impact people's health. This is especially true for the elderly, who are particularly susceptible to nervous and cardiovascular disorders due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by the heat. However, the elderly have difficulty regulating their own functions because their overall health has declined and their nervous system is sluggish. The consequences range from mild fatigue, weakness, forgetfulness, irritability, rapid pulse, and palpitations to more severe cardiovascular collapse. Furthermore, the habit of using air conditioning at low temperatures for extended periods, especially at night, can increase the risk of cold-induced stroke. Therefore, people with hypertension should not take a sudden cold shower after being in the hot sun, as this can cause dangerous complications. In addition, sudden weather changes make the elderly more susceptible to colds and respiratory illnesses, muscle and joint pain, especially pain in the knees, lower back, and joints of the hands and feet.
To prevent summer illnesses, doctors advise the elderly to drink enough water daily and avoid dehydration. They should eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, especially easily digestible ones, to provide water and micronutrients and prevent constipation. They should limit going outside in the scorching sun; if work requires them to leave the house, they should wear a wide-brimmed hat and light, cool clothing. Upon returning home from the sun, they should avoid ice water and cold foods; cold beer, especially for those with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or asthma, should be avoided, and they should not shower immediately after sweating. Furthermore, regular health checkups are very important for the elderly. Monitoring their health and early detection of illnesses allows for timely treatment and better disease prevention.
Besides physical health care, the mental health of the elderly also needs attention to help them live happy, healthy, and useful lives for their families and society. An optimistic attitude is always an effective remedy to overcome illness. Therefore, the elderly should maintain a cheerful and optimistic spirit, eat properly, exercise regularly, and have regular health checkups. Children and grandchildren should encourage the elderly to participate in social activities. These could include volunteer clubs, hobbies like playing chess, or sports activities such as yoga, tai chi, and walking. This will help the elderly manage their health well, maintain flexibility and mental sharpness, and enjoy life to the fullest.
It is especially important for families to spend more time caring for their grandparents and parents, regularly chatting, reading newspapers together, watching TV, or discussing issues that concern them. The love and care of family members is a crucial factor in helping the elderly stay healthy and enjoy a happy life with their children and grandchildren.
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