The summer brings warmth and joy for many people, but the high temperatures it also brings can be hazardous for seniors and those at risk for heat-related illness. Seniors and those with chronic medical conditions who have increased difficulty regulating their body temperature are at the most risk from heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Below are a few tips that can help keep seniors cool in hot weather.
Staying hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for people of all ages. But for seniors, it’s critical due to their lower sense of thirst, making them more susceptible to dehydration. If your loved one struggles to drink water throughout the day, try to flavor a pitcher with fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries or mint. Keeping proper hydration will also help them avoid constipation, confusion, pressure sores, and skin conditions.
Know their signs of distress
Educate yourself on the signs of hypothermia. Always look out for headaches, nausea or vomiting, breathing troubles, dry skin with no sweat, and moody behaviors in the elderly. Understanding the warning signs can help save a life. If you see these signs call a doctor immediately to tend to the senior. Assisted caregivers are trained to recognize these dangerous warnings signs to help keep your loved ones safe during those dangerous summer heatwaves.
Invest in an energy-saving Thermostat
Seniors often avoid using air conditioners to keep electricity costs low. However, an air conditioner is the most effective way of maintaining cool temperatures during hot weather. Luckily, with the help of innovations like smart thermostats, lowering cooling costs is easier than ever. Rather than allowing the A/C to run constantly, smart thermostats learn preferred cooling temperatures and routines that will save electricity whether your loved one is at home or away. Now that’s cool.
Stay Indoors
Try to avoid being outdoors from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, when temperatures are at their height. If being outdoors is necessary, seniors should stay in shaded areas as often as possible. In addition, they should always wear sunblock on all exposed areas of the skin and wear a wide-brimmed hat whenever venturing outdoors.
Draw in the Cool Night Air
Take advantage of cooler nightly temperatures by opening the windows before going to bed. Then, before the sun rises, shut the windows and blinds to darken the rooms. Drawing the shades will block up to 25% of the heat coming in and keep your home cooler longer.
Check-in regularly
If your loved one lives alone, be sure to check in on them several times a day. If you are not able to, ask a neighbor or a friend to check in on them.
If you cannot check on or keep a watchful eye on your elderly loved one, consider hiring a Caregiver from Assisted Healthcare Services at (800) 949-6555 or www.AssistedCares.com. Our trusted caregivers can help keep your loved one safe during the hot summer heat.
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