It’s June and we are finally seeing a change in the weather. We can go outside and enjoy the sunshine, work on our gardens or yards, or maybe just relax on a porch and watch the neighborhood.

But just because the weather has changed doesn’t mean we do not need to be cautious. During the winter we worry about frostbite and slipping on ice, but during the summer we tend to forget there are other dangers as well.

The heat is not something to just enjoy, it can come with a host of problems we do not typically think about.

As we age, we tend to become more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and issues. First let’s discuss dehydration.

We tend to suffer from dehydration because in the heat sometimes we have a harder time regulating our body temperature, so we end up with a reduced sense of thirst.

To prevent this from becoming an issue, try to sip water or electrolyte drinks throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty.

Eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, melons and berries as snacks. And avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they deplete your body’s water supply.

When planning outdoor activities, timing is key.

Try to remain in air-conditioned environments during peak heat times while doing any necessary outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Also, protect your skin by using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Protect your eyes by wearing UV protecting sunglasses or a hat.

And make sure you know if your prescription medications might make you more susceptible to the sun and heat.

Should you go outside during peak heat times, be aware of heat related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

With heat exhaustion, watch out for red/flushed skin, dizziness, headache, nausea and rapid heartbeat. With heat stroke be alert for a body temperature over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, confusion and a lack of sweat despite high heat. Should you experience these symptoms, take them seriously!

Move to an air-conditioned area, apply cold compresses, sip water and seek medical help if the symptoms do not subside.

When at home try to keep your indoor temperature controlled and as cool as possible by keeping your blinds closed during the hottest part of the day and using fans for air circulation.

Unfortunately, some homes without air conditioning tend to get hot, even when taking precautions or running fans.

If need be, utilize cooling centers in the community. When heat becomes extreme, there will be designated cooling areas for people to relax and cool down.

If there is not a designated place you can always visit public, air-conditioned places like a local library or shopping mall.

Besides heat, during the warmer months we tend to try and enjoy the outside more, whether it is walking the neighborhood or just our own yards. You should still be cautious to safely move around.

Glance 3 to 6 feet in front of you so you can recognize uneven terrain and sidewalks.

Do not stare down at your feet.

Make sure you are wearing bright-colored clothes so people driving can see you on or around the road. Start with short walks and build up your stamina.

Also, make sure to take breaks when necessary and keep a cell phone on you should something happen and you need assistance.

Mallory Wiand is the Wellness and HEAP coordinator at Direction Home of Eastern Ohio. Contact the office at 330-505-2300 for information regarding senior-based services and opportunities in the Mahoning Valley.