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"It's hot outside."  Seems that's what we've all been saying these last several days.  With temperatures soaring into the triple digits and heat indexes at dangerous levels for several days in a row, we're all beginning to feel the effects of this latest heat wave...
 
Perhaps no one is more at risk than the low-income seniors served by Cardinal Ritter Senior Services. The elderly and the chronically ill are more vulnerable to the effects of high temperatures. They perspire less and are more likely to have health problems requiring medications that can impair the body's response to heat. And seniors often don't open their windows if they don't have an air conditioner because they feel vulnerable to crime.  Many heat-related fatalities occur in homes that have an air conditioner that isn't being used or where the windows are closed.  Sometimes senior adults will turn off their air conditioners because of high electric bills - a trend that we've seen continue due to the downturn in the economy.    
 
But YOU can help make a difference!  By giving a donation to CRSS today, you can help us to support the low-income seniors in our care and make sure that they don't have to make the choice between staying cool and other necessities like food and medication. Click here to make a donation that makes a difference in the life of a senior adult today, or mail your donation to our Development Office at 7609 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63119.  

With YOUR help, we can make a difference!
Tips for staying cool...  
According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, here are some tips we can all use to stay cool in this summer heat: 
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
  • Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities.
  • Use exhaust fans and dehumidifiers when needed.
  • Eat light, well-balanced meals at regular intervals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
  • Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Wear sunscreen.
  • Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day; use the buddy system when working in extreme heat; and take frequent breaks.