Helping Seniors Stay Safe During Heat Waves
There are some very effective ways for seniors to keep safe and comfortable during hot weather. Let’s take a look at signs of heat stress or heat stroke in seniors and the best ways to avoid these conditions.
The hot, sweltering days of summer can be hazardous for many seniors. Older adults exposed to warmer temperatures are vulnerable to heat stroke, exhaustion, and dehydration.
Staying inside, cool, and hydrated during these periods of persistent high-temperatures is vital. There are some very effective ways for seniors to keep safe and comfortable during hot weather. Let’s take a look at signs of heat stress or heat stroke in seniors and the best ways to avoid these conditions.
Signs of Heat Stress or Heat Stroke
Seniors are more susceptible to heat stroke because regulating their body temperature during times of extreme heat is more challenging. In addition, some medications can also contribute to an older person feeling overheated or unable to cool down.
Paying close attention to your loved one during hot days is essential. Look for signs of heat stress and heat stroke-related symptoms. Seniors experiencing heat stroke may become thirsty, dizzy, weak, unstable in their movements, and even nauseated. Also, check for erratic pulse, which can also signify heat exhaustion.
If your loved one shows any signs of heat-related illness, seek medical help, allow them to rest in a cool place, and drink water or other beverages like Gatorade that restore electrolytes.
Ways to Stay Comfortable During Hot Days
Ensure your loved one remains calm and relaxed during a heat wave by limiting the amount of time they spend outdoors. When the temperature climbs above 80°F, it is crucial to keep their home cool by closing blinds and curtains during the daytime. Avoid turning on the oven if possible, which can make it more difficult for the air conditioning to keep the house cool.
Other hot weather safety tips include avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can cause dehydration. Wearing light clothing and cooling down with refreshing showers or wet washcloths can be very helpful as well.
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When Air Conditioning is Not Available or Working
If your loved one’s air conditioning fails or they don’t have it in their home, it is critical to help them stay cool when excessive temperatures come. If possible, take them to an air-conditioned building nearby, such as a mall, store, or public building.
If leaving home isn’t feasible, keep the house as cool as possible with fans, and spray bottles full of water that can used to cool down. For homes without air conditioning, it is especially important to keep shades and curtains drawn during the hottest times of the day.
Keeping Your Loved Ones Safe During Hot Weather
The compassionate staff at Frontier Senior Living has helped many families find the perfect Senior Living community to meet their loved one’s unique needs. We are committed to keeping our residents safe by providing services to help them live lives of enjoyment, purpose and meaning.
If you would like to learn more about our offerings, we cordially invite you to visit one of our beautiful communities, take a tour and speak with our friendly staff.
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