Summer is in bloom, sending colorful flowers as well as dangerous heat waves. Older people are especially vulnerable to the rising temperatures of summertime. Families and caregivers, however, can take steps to protect the elderly with these summer safety tips.

Excessive heat and humidity can cause severe health problems and even death. Each year, over six hundred elderly Americans die of health complications caused by the intense heat of summer months. Heat-related illness can also emerge, especially in seniors with chronic medical conditions.

Illnesses many seniors face, like heart disease, dementia, obesity, and diabetes, increase the risk of heat-related health problems. Certain medications, such as diuretics and those prescribed for Parkinson’s disease, for example, also exacerbate health conditions caused by the summer heat.

Complicating the problem is that seniors are unaware when they are overheated or dehydrated. Older people have poorer circulation in comparison to when they were younger. Plus, seniors fail to sweat effectively. These age-related issues make it difficult for seniors to handle the summer heat.

When outdoor temperatures rise to over 80 degrees Fahrenheit, caregivers are urged to be proactive and take steps to protect the seniors in their care. By taking precautions, older adults are more likely to avoid the ailments caused by exposure to excessive summertime heat.

Tip 1: Stay indoors

As the summer sun rises high in the noon sky, keep seniors inside an air-conditioned building. If the home is not airconditioned, the senior should be moved to an alternate location that is cool. Consider a local library, senior center, museum, or other place that maintains a comfortably cool indoor temperature.

Social activities may be enjoyed at the senior center, where other seniors are also looking for a cool spot. An air-conditioned indoor mall can also be used for walking. Caregivers might even take the senior to a movie theater, where they can watch the newest movie in an air-conditioned space.

Tip 2: Reduce sun exposure

Summer weather is inviting. At the same time, excessive sun exposure can be dangerous for older adults. Limit direct sun exposure as much as possible. Caregivers are urged to plan the senior’s outdoor activities when the sun is not at its hottest: early in the morning or in the evening.

Tip 3: Stay hydrated

Dehydration is a serious issue for elderly people, and summer weather exacerbates the problem. Seniors are urged to drink plenty of cool water throughout the day. If water is too plain, consider adding some fruit juices to the water and other beverages that do not contain caffeine (caffeine causes the body to lose water). Be watchful for excessive sugar intake.

Caregivers can set hydration breaks throughout the summer days. Scheduled breaks are important, especially for seniors with dementia, who may not remember to drink fluids regularly. Give the senior a reusable water bottle that allows her to keep track of the amount of water she drinks each day.

Beverages are not the only way to ensure a senior remains hydrated. Foods with a high-water content are also appropriate. Offer the senior watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries. Freeze fruit juice and give the senior popsicle treats as a way to introduce fluids without having her drink more.

Tip 4: Dress for summer

Fending off the heat of summer can be done by choosing appropriate clothing. Loose-fitting, light-colored clothes reflect sunlight more so than dark-colored clothes that absorb heat. A lightweight, broad-brimmed hat will also help keep the senior cool and prevent sunburn.

Tip 5: Wear sunscreen

Sunburn is no picnic. Older adults are urged to wear sunscreen when planning outdoor summer activities. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Seniors should apply the sunscreen lotion or spray liberally over all exposed skin.

Tip 6: Take a cool shower

Seniors who feel uncomfortably warm can cool down with a tepid shower. Alternately, a bath that is not too cold or too hot will accomplish the same goal. Also consider sponge bathing the senior or placing a towel moistened with cool water on her wrists, ankles, armpits, and neck.

Harmless as the sun’s rays seem, hot weather can cause serious illness in seniors. Dehydration can occur, leading to weakness, headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, and passing out. A dehydrated body loses electrolytes, so drinking sports drinks, like Gatorade, can replace those lost electrolytes.

A rise in body temperature after prolonged, unprotected bouts under the sun can cause heat stroke. Warning signs of heat stroke include a body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, a fast pulse and confusion. Heat stroke can be deadly, so call 911 and move the senior to a cool area.

Excessive heat and dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion. Without treatment, heat exhaustion can cause heat stroke. Signs of heat exhaustion are clammy skin, heavy or no sweating, muscle cramps, and tiredness. Offer the senior liquids, move her to a shady spot, and call 911 if symptoms do not improve immediately.

Taking extra precautions to protect a senior from the heat of summer can prevent heat-related ailments. When families are too busy, the caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care are ready to step in and ensure that seniors remain cool, hydrated, and healthy on every summer day.

Professional caregivers from our reputable home care agency do more than protect seniors from the sun. Our nonmedical senior care services include assistance with personal hygiene tasks, transportation to doctors’ offices or errands, light housekeeping, grocery shopping, and meal preparation.

We also offer pleasant companion care. Caregivers take time to build strong bonds with the seniors we serve by engaging in conversations, playing card games, and going on safe outings. Staying social is key to avoiding social isolation and loneliness, and important to a senior’s well-being and quality of life.

Assisting Hands Home Care offers comprehensive senior care services to enhance the well-being of seniors of all abilities and levels of independence. When you are ready for outstanding home care, contact our Palm Beach, Florida, office at (561) 566-5989. We will develop a care plan to meet your loved one’s care needs.