Skip To Navigation Skip to Content
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregedivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregafgivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
Individuals & Caregivers
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Public Health Professionals
Teachers
 

NCHPAD - Building Healthy Inclusive Communities

Font Size:

F.I.T.T.: Beat the Summer Heat, Save Money, and Go Green!


Associate Director, Amy Rauworth
Associate Director, Amy Rauworth

While going green may be the cool (and smart) thing to do, there are additional reasons to think about reducing your carbon emissions, including reducing your waistline and the amount of money spent on gasoline.

The price of gasoline has quadrupled over the last decade and Americans still choose to drive large gas-guzzling SUVs (myself included). However, according to a new report by Cambridge Energy Research Associates, U.S. gasoline demand will likely decline in 2008 for the first time in 17 years. Authorities suggest that this is a result of the slowdown in our economy and soaring increase in gas prices. Will this decline mean simply staying at home? If you are ready to be physically active, that answer is NO! For physical activity proponents, this is an opportune time to encourage more active self- transport to and from many destinations that previously may have been a 5-minute car (or SUV) ride away. Not to mention the impact that this could have on the “battle of the bulge.” Obesity has increased at an alarming rate over the last four decades from 13% in 1960 to as high as 32% in recent years. People with disabilities are at greater risk of becoming obese and developing secondary conditions that are associated with an increased waistline or BMI. To decrease our risks associated with obesity, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the number of zeros in your savings account balance, make the choice to self-transport whenever possible!

To beat the heat, here are a few safety tips to follow when you choose to be physically active this summer:

  • Whenever possible, avoid strenuous activity during peak hours when the heat, humidity, and smog or pollution levels are highest. This is especially important if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to regulate your body temperature.
  • Before you leave home, apply sunscreen of a SPF level of 15-30 at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. Sunglasses and a hat are also a smart choice for your self-transport endeavors.
  • Wear light-colored clothing that allows for circulation of air between your skin and the environment. Cotton or linen are good fabric choices in addition to synthetic fibers such as polypropylenes that help “wick” moisture away from your skin. It is important to complete a thorough skin assessment before and after physical activity to ensure that you do not develop a pressure sore due to friction or moisture.
  • Hydrate your body. The key to preventing dehydration is to drink before you are thirsty. If you’re feeling thirsty, you should stop, rest, and drink some fluids. Also be aware of drinking the right fluids. For optimal absorption, a beverage should contain only 4% to 8% carbohydrate. This amount can be found in some sports drinks; however, fruit juices and sodas are closer to 10% carbohydrate (i.e., fructose or high-fructose corn syrup) and take longer to be absorbed. Water is always a good choice during your active transport.
  • Watch for signs and symptoms of heat stroke. Heat stroke is caused by the body’s inability to rid itself of excess heat that results in a sudden rise in body temperature. Signs include very hot and dry skin, nausea, dizziness, confusion, and unconsciousness. Call 911 and seek emergency medical assistance if you suspect heat stroke.

     

    Follow these tips and get out and enjoy the rest of the summer (it will be gone before you know it), take a moment to observe the beautiful sky, and walk or roll to your destination of choice!


    Please send your comments and feedback to Amy Rauworth at amyr@lakeshore.org.

  • blog comments powered by Disqus