Let's Talk: Self-care in extreme weathers and the changing climate

Kym started off the talk with information about caring for yourself in extreme heat.

All members of the group said they struggle in extreme heat and have to have some form of shade; that they cannot sit in full sun due to burning and other risks such as skin cancer.

Kym then asked if anyone used/recommended any devices or ideas for keeping cool.

• Freezing a water bottle and using this to keep cool.
• Hand held fans and devices that you can wear around your neck.

Kym went on to discuss other aspects of hot weather such as:

• Ensuring medication is refrigerated if the room temperature becomes too high. The group had not realised this would be an issue, so this was a useful piece of information/advice. 

Kym also discussed watching the typical signs for moles changing in relation to skin being exposed to the sun, and to ensure they see a doctor if there are any changes. You can read more about this on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/melanoma-skin-cancer/symptoms/#:~:text=Normal%20moles%20usually%20do%20not,swollen%20and%20sore

This then led to a discussion about the accessibility of seeing a GP, which some attendees felt put them off seeking an appointment.

There was then a discussion about hydration, and how important it is to check the colour of your urine. Your urine should be straw coloured, anything darker than this and fluids are needed (preferably water rather than alcohol or coffee).

People should watch out for symptoms such as:

• Extreme tiredness
• Overheating
• Confusion - severe heatstroke can lead to seizures and loss of consciousness in some cases.

Community groups are great for keeping an eye on each other.

Wear light coloured clothing and be aware of certain materials that can keep you cooler.

Colder weather:

Kym went on to discuss colder weather. Some tips discussed for colder weather are:

• Wearing warm clothes and layering up.
• Using hot water bottles 
• Electric blankets

Resources:

Kym then gave everyone plenty of resources to take home including: 

• A temperature card to highlight an ideal room temperature.
  • Recipes for the cold weather
  • Leaflets on keeping warm
  • Managing energy costs
  • Looking after your general wellbeing
  • Eating healthy
  • Keeping cool in hot weather 

Overall, this was a really successful and useful event for the 6 attendees, with lots of tips, advice and resources to take into the Winter months. A huge thank you to Kym Gleeson for providing her advice and expertise, and to Hellaby Craft Club.