The first episode of the miniseries "Summer in Health – Tips for Staying Well," published on the YouTube channel of the Antonio Cardarelli Hospital in Naples, is dedicated to the elderly.
This series includes four video-pills created by geriatricians, allergists, immunologists, diabetologists and oncologists of the Neapolitan hospital, which offer the main recommendations to protect the health of the most fragile patients, especially in light of the continuing record temperatures in Campania, 3-5 degrees above the seasonal average and with a humidity rate often above 80%.
In the first episode, available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGq46jvmcd0, Maria D'Avino , director of the Geriatric Medicine Unit, emphasizes the importance of proper hydration and nutrition to protect a particularly vulnerable segment of the population during this period.
“It's advisable to drink about two liters of still water a day and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables,” suggests D'Avino, “avoiding spicy foods and large, heavy meals.”
Another priority is managing temperatures in the living spaces of the elderly. "If air conditioning isn't available," emphasizes the director of Geriatrics, "it's essential to ensure good ventilation during the day, keeping the blinds down and staying in the shade.
"It's important to avoid going out during the hottest hours, from 11 am to 18 pm, a rule that also applies to children," he adds. Clothing is also important: "It's advisable to wear light, light-colored clothing that allows the skin to breathe."
Finally, D'Avino emphasizes the importance of affection. "It's essential to stay close to our elders," the director emphasizes. "They need to be surrounded by the affection and presence of their loved ones, even if not necessarily the same person, but still part of their family."
