Warm weather, particularly strong heat, can be hazardous to people’s health, and this risk is heightened in older adults. Heat causes some people to feel hot and unpleasant, while high temperatures can bring serious illness and even death. As temperatures rise around the country, the number of people suffering from heat exhaustion is projected to rise. While the warm weather is nice, a few summer safety tips can help everyone stay comfortable and safe this summer.
Importance of Staying Safe in Summer
Anyone can become ill from heat as temperatures rise, but older people are at a larger risk. Sweating is one of the most common ways the body cools itself, however, older adults sweat less. This is due to the fact that our built-in physiological systems become less efficient at fulfilling their tasks as we age. This entails regulating one’s body temperature.
Watch Out for Heat Distress
Fortunately, the risk of heat-related illness in older individuals can be decreased with the help of care professionals. Caregivers must be aware of the signs and symptoms of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Knowing the warning signs and keeping a watch on older individuals enables action to be taken to protect their safety and well-being. Knowing and monitoring these signs of an older adult suffering from heat exhaustion can help to avert serious illness.
There are various warning indicators to look out for when it comes to the safety of older persons. The following are the most common symptoms of heat stress:
- Shallow, fast breathing
- Dizziness
- Dry tongue
- Confusion
- Hot to touch
- Tiredness
- Rapid pulse
- Irritability
- Headache
- Muscle spasms and cramps
- Nausea
Frequent Hydration
Sips of water should be consumed on a regular basis to stay hydrated. Dehydration is more common in those over the age of 65. They may occasionally forget to drink water, and others may fail to identify signs of dehydration such as dark urine or reduced urination. Make a point of encouraging regular sips and keeping fresh water available at all times.
Check Prescriptions
It is vital to determine whether someone in your care is prone to high body temperature, dehydration, or light sensitivity. Make a note of anybody who may be particularly vulnerable as a result of their medicines so that you may take appropriate precautions.
Wear Appropriate Clothes
When advising those in your care to dress for the heat, look for loose, light clothes that breathe. Natural materials, such as cotton or linen, regulate body temperature better. Wear a hat and sunscreen while going outside to protect yourself from UV rays and avoid sunburn.
Choose SummerHouse Beau Ridge
With our two separate living choices on a common campus, SummerHouse Beau Ridge is a wonderful choice for active older individuals who wish to enjoy a worry-free resort lifestyle, as well as families seeking for the perfect living and memory care solution for a loved one with dementia. Our Active Independent Living option allows for a more liberated lifestyle that removes responsibilities like housework and home maintenance once and for all. If you require specialized dementia care in a home-like setting, our Memory Care option will fulfill your needs.
