It’s summertime, which means the heat will be with us for a while. The heat and humidity may be suffocating, and dehydration or a heat stroke are both hazards that everyone, especially the elderly, should avoid. This is certainly a time to be cautious and healthy in the sun while still enjoying all summer has to offer.
As the temperatures start to rise, it is important to take precautions to stay cool and safe. Seniors are especially at risk of heat-related illness during the summer months. Here are 5 tips to help seniors beat the heat this summer!
1. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a potentially deadly condition that must be treated as soon as possible. Heatstroke is characterized by hot, dry skin, memory loss, a rapid heart rate, and a temperature of over 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat exhaustion is less severe and causes fainting, white skin (which may be caused by sunburn), increased thirst, and a temperature of over 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, immediately move to a cool place and call 911.
It is important for seniors to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke because they are more susceptible to them due to age-related changes in the body. The elderly have a harder time regulating their body temperature, so they are more likely to get heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
2. Wear Proper Clothing
Wearing the correct attire in the heat may help you to stay cooler and avoid UV damage. Dark colors, according to popular belief, absorb heat. Wear light-colored, lightweight fabrics that reflect sunlight away from yourself and keep you cooler. To avoid skin damage from the sun’s rays, use loose-fitting cotton clothing, as well as sun glasses, hats, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
The heat and humidity may be suffocating, and dehydration or a heat stroke are both hazards that everyone, especially the elderly, should avoid.
3. Stay Indoors During Extreme Heat
In addition to wearing the proper clothing, seniors should also take care to avoid being in the direct sun for too long. If you must be outside, try to stay in the shade as much as possible. During the summer, keeping your body temperature constant is more difficult. It’s critical to keep your aging loved ones indoors during this time to avoid overheating. If it’s too hot to be outdoors, spend as much time as possible in the air conditioning.
4. Stay cool
In addition, older people should have access to air conditioning. Air cooling is the most efficient way to cool down, but if you don’t have it at home, go to a library or mall and seek refuge. Fans are helpful for keeping cool, but they aren’t enough alone when the temperature rises suddenly. Open windows and install fans in order to get a cross breeze going, which will help circulate the air and keep everyone cool.
5. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Alcoholic beverages, coffee, and sweetened drinks are all examples of drinks that might dehydrate you. Although water is one of the greatest ways to stay hydrated, sports drinks can replenish the electrolytes your body loses during exercise. Drink small amounts of fluids at frequent intervals throughout the day, even if you don’t feel like it.
Dehydration is another problem during the summer. Seniors are more susceptible to dehydration owing to their chronic medical conditions, which necessitate them taking diuretics that increase urination. They may also be less likely to feel thirsty than younger people. Dry mouth, tiredness, lightheadedness, dark-colored urine, and disorientation are all symptoms of dehydration. If you experience any of these, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and seek medical attention if necessary.
How Avanti Senior Living at Towne Lake Keeps Residents Safe During the Summer
Your elderly loved ones won’t have to stay inside during the summer heat. Avanti Senior Living at Towne Lake is aware of your loved one’s needs and ensures that they may comfortably enjoy the outdoors by providing them with plenty of water and shade, as well as monitoring their activity levels. Our courtyard provides a lovely, peaceful haven for our residents, while our pathways are perfect for a leisurely stroll or an energetic walk.
Avanti Senior Living at Towne Lake strives to create an environment that is both enjoyable and safe for our residents. We hope these tips will be helpful for you and your loved ones as you enjoy the summer months ahead!
If you have any questions about how we keep our residents safe during the summer months, or if you would like to schedule a tour of our community, please contact us today! We would be happy to answer any of your questions.
