As springtime blossoms and the summertime heats up, most of our nation’s seniors will start leaving their houses to take advantage of the warm weather and sun. Even though most would concur that “age is just a state of mind,” the summer season brings with it risks to vulnerable senior populations which have been homebound in the winter season.
That is why Partners for Home, the nation’s top trustful private home care provider, has outlined the following tips to aid the elderly in preparing for the sizzling conditions and the rigors of getting through the upcoming heat waves.
Keep all household windows open
Seniors usually lose their sense of body temperature that might lead to death from heat illnesses. From 1979 – 1999, 8,015 heat-associated fatalities happened in this country, according to the Center for Disease Control.
As people grow older, their brain occasionally cannot recognize that their body is overheating. In turn, some elderly people keep windows shut or might dress in sweaters on hot days because they’re cold. Make certain to open up some windows all throughout the home to circulate air and sustain a safe temperature.
Remain cool inside vehicles
While traveling in an automobile with seniors, maintain an appropriate temperature during the trip. Leave all windows open if they remain in the car while you go into a store. Like young members of your family, elderly folks need fresh air, because they’ll run a higher risk of overheating in a closed, hot car. Of course, for safety, be certain all occupants make use of their seat belts.
Minimize sun exposure
Whether it’s around your home, at the beach or in the park, seniors must limit direct sun exposure. Not just will they run a greater risk of overheating, sunburn, or skin disease, yet also exhaustion, an oftentimes harmful—and overlooked—hazard in the summertime. Being overactive or just sitting outdoors for too long places a senior at risk for severe conditions which might threaten their health. In order to minimize risks dress in light colored clothes and plan outside activities in the cooler times of the day.
Consume plenty of fluids
Remaining hydrated is critical for everyone, yet seniors usually lose fluids quicker than additional age groups. Given the threat of overheating, as well as becoming physically strained, it’s vital that elderly individuals consume a lot of water and additional liquids to receive the nutrients needed to remain healthy.
Avoid stressful tasks
Even the most vivacious elderly people ought to be careful how much energy they use outside in the summer season. It may be hard for seniors to give up responsibilities or activities as they age; therefore, make certain that seniors aren’t over-extending themselves. Activities like gardening and mowing lawns ought to be saved for colder days or passed on to landscaping businesses.
Wear bug repellent and sunscreen
The season’s bugs and sun may be challenging to summertime comfort; therefore, be ready to prevent their sting. Keep a high-SPF sunscreen and bug spray available, and regularly apply the treatment according to the label directions.
