Older people do not meet any of the criteria outlined by scientists, which would suggest that they might be more susceptible to insect bites. However, they do admit that some people get bitten more often than others. I am one of them and I can’t help but feel that my age has something to do with it. I’ve had more bites this summer than ever before. Maybe it is because I don’t walk as fast as I used to, but I don’t think so. I am more inclined to think that insects just like the softer, dryer, thinner skin with blood vessels closer to the surface better? There is no scientific evidence (at least that I have been able to find) that says that mosquitoes and other miscellaneous creepy crawlies, like older people better, but I swear that I seem be tastier than I used to be.
Mosquitoes hone in, or so they tell me, on chemicals given out in human sweat or other hormone related temptations, not to mention that some people have more sensitive skin and suffer severer reactions. All I know is that evenings on the tennis courts or hikes in forest are a nightmare, and I come home with more bites than anyone else in the group.
An article written for the (McClatchy-Tribune: Washington. D.C. April 13, 2011) featured clothing with an insect repellent shield. Insect Shield-treated clothing is said to repel mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers and midgets. Imagine wearing great-looking, casual clothing that happens to preventing mosquito and tic bites. It provides the benefits of bug spray (which we all know is not only noxious but you sweat it off rather quickly, and sometimes I think the bugs actually like it…have you noticed that they will bite right through your shirt?) without the constant reapplication.
I was browsing at REI on Friday and did actually see a line of insect repellent clothing on the racks. There is quite a nice selection which includes trousers, tops, hats and socks. They look good too. The items have been tested and it seems that the additive is good for up to 70 washings. The only trouble, of course, was that the price tag which was quite high. I might weaken though (did I mention that the shirt was really quite nice looking), as I jut noticed a few more itchy lumps on my back.
If your mother or grandmother loves to garden, hike, or muck around in the yard, consider giving them insect repellent socks and shirts. I didn’t look at the men’s line but I am sure it is equally appealing. It would be a wonderful gift for the fisherman in your life.
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