If you are 55 or older, summer can be a dangerous time for you - especially the summer of 2018, which has had record-breaking heat. Last year, The New York Times said that 2017 was the hottest year on record. This year may end up being even hotter. That's where the danger comes in.

According to the site DripDrop.com, "Older adults are much more affected by summer heat. For instance, from 1999-2009, roughly 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. - nearly 3,000 - were adults older than 65."

DripDrop is a company which manufactures an electrolyte drink designed to work especially fast to overcome dehydration_which happens often to middle-aged adults and to seniors who don't drink enough liquid. As people get older, they don't sweat as much as they did when younger. They will still sweat on hot days, just not as much as may be necessary. Since sweating is one of the most effective methods the body has of controlling overheating, those older than 50 must keep in mind the warning signs of heat exhaustion.

Early signs are tiredness, dizziness, lack of energy and surprisingly, excessive sweating, especially of the facial area. Staying outside under the glaring sun, or in the heat reflected from buildings, sidewalks and streets can quickly lead to heat stroke. This is a much more serious condition than mere heat exhaustion, and it can happen quickly. DripDrop warns that heat stroke can occur within 15 minutes of the onset of the exhaustion phase.

Everyone should be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke; not only to save their own lives but the lives of others. Feeling nauseous and actually, retching or vomiting is a major symptom. Dizziness to the point of fainting requires a 911 call. This is why there are so many warnings during heat spells to check on older neighbors and friends. If a home's air conditioning has gone out, or the older person is outside during the heat of the day, they may need medical help, fast. Those suffering the effects of overheating may not even feel hot or be aware of their condition.

But there are ways to avoid the danger of heat. One is, of course, staying hydrated by drinking water. Drink plain water rather than fruit juice or soda. That way, the sugars, food coloring and other additives to flavored beverages will not be left behind in the body as the liquid is sweated out.

The cliched recommendation is that folks should drink at least eight cups of water a day. But the need for water is an individual thing; you may need much more liquid. This is especially true if you live at a higher altitude, have been exercising or are suffering from diarrhea, which will expel much of the body's supply of liquid.

The cooling effect of water is valuable protection against overheating. You can get a mist-spray bottle to carry in your car for those days when you don't want to use extra gas to mega-power the air conditioning, or if it isn't sufficient in your vehicle to keep you cool. A misting spray bottle doesn't leak, so it can also be carried in a pocket or purse. They can be purchased online for about ten dollars. Another cooling solution is a plastic grocery bag containing a damp cloth; useful for wiping the sweat off the face and arms, leaving a cooling residue behind.

As the hot summer continues to roll out, be vigilant about protecting yourself against heat danger, so you will be around to welcome the colder weather once it comes.

Wina Sturgeon is an active 55+ based in Salt Lake City, who offers news on the science of anti-aging and staying youthful at: adventuresportsweekly.com. She skates, bikes and lifts weights to stay in shape.

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