Staying cool in the heat with my spinal cord injury can be tough. It’s easier if it’s cold to keep warm and cosy.
Before My Injury
As a teenager, I worked in the village greengrocers. A great job. It had a real village and community vibe working there. Each day, the same people used to come and help clear the shop up at night, and one local pensioner came down every morning to help open up. I can remember dragging all the trollies with flowers on or the cages full of potato sacks out to the shop front area with him for passers-by to see. The shop had a big walk-in fridge at the rear to keep the vegetables in. I remember the manageresses partner finishing his manual job on a hot day, coming in to stand in the fridge to cool himself down. I used to enjoy standing in there myself on a hot day.
Keeping Cool now I have a Disability
Although Staying cool with my spinal cord injury during hot weather can be a challenge, it’s similar for everyone, and it’s especially important for individuals like me with disabilities. I’m less mobile, and it makes it hard to keep cool. Not being able to regulate your body temperature doesn’t help.
Here are some tips to help you keep cool with a spinal cord injury and other disabilities:
General Tips
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
- Dress appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabrics.
- Protect your skin: Apply sunscreen with high UV protection and wear a hat to protect your head and face from the sun.
- Create a cool environment: Use fans, air conditioning, or cold compresses to lower your body temperature.
- Avoid excessive heat: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Tips for Specific Disabilities
- Mobility impairments: Avoid walking in the heat by using public transportation or accessible taxis. Wear breathable clothing to prevent overheating.
- Sensory impairments: Use glasses with UV protection. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas with excessive noise or bright lights.
- Respiratory conditions: Use air conditioning or fans to improve air circulation. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding medication and treatment plans during hot weather.
- Cognitive impairments: Use clear and simple language to communicate heat-related risks. Provide visual aids or reminders to stay hydrated and cool.
An Idea
Staying cool with my spinal cord injury, when it’s hot, I devised an ingenious idea using a spray bottle. Now, you can get pressurised ones that release more spray. It’s a great idea. Additionally, after increasing the pressure, you can adjust the water discharge to be a light spray or more of a jet.
Disclaimer
There are many different types of disabilities, and everyone trying to compete with a condition will manage and deal with heat in their own way. The above are just ideas to help people keep cool in the heat.