I am NOT a fan of the summer months. Summer is my LEAST favorite season, right behind winter. I cannot stand humidity or the intense summer sun.
I used to like summer when I was younger, but the older I get the more I dislike it. I especially hate it at night when it’s so hot and sticky that I can’t get comfortable to sleep.
Below are some great tips from Kurt Kazanowski on how to protect the elderly during the dog days of summer. I am sharing these tips with readers because I think they can apply to everyone – not just he elderly.
Kurt Kazanowski MS, RN, CHE, author of A Son’s Journey: Taking Care of Mom and Dad, who is a senior care, homecare and hospice expert, offers these tips:
Stay hydrated
Dehydration is one of the main causes of most health problems, not just heat related. To keep everything running efficiently in the body, and keep it cool, water is a must. Encourage them to continually drink water throughout the day even if they aren’t thirsty. Your body needs water way before it tells you through the sensation of thirst. Keep an eye on the consumption of caffeine and alcohol as their intake dries out the body.
Notice the time of day
If you have an activity planned, especially one with heavy sun exposure, schedule it accordingly. The hottest times of the summer day are between 12pm and 4pm. Aim for morning or evening when thinking about having a family outing in the summer. Most importantly keep the time limited. There is only so long people of any age can benefit from being in direct sunlight.
Dress appropriately and seek shade
Older individual’s skin is particularly sensitive. Encourage them to use sunscreen and bug sprays when necessary. Utilize shade during your summer fun when possible. They can also wear light breathable layers and sun hats to avoid sun exposure if shade is not an option.
Watch the index
High heat coupled with high humidity impairs the bodies sweat glands. Therefore, it can’t cool itself properly. The heat index takes the moisture and heat measurements into account. It then reports the temperature ‘it feels like’ outside with multiple variables in mind. There are apps and various websites where you can check the heat index easily.
Take it easy
Plan your activities with all family members and their needs in mind. Strenuous activities outdoors are overwhelming to many in the summer. Sometimes turning your activity plans into two-parts is the most successful. If you are inviting your older family members, consider their limitations. Maybe have one part of the family do the hike and meet your parents for lunch after with everyone. That way it is still a social activity but without the stress for them.
Utilize AC
Air conditioning is a wonderful asset for people of every age, especially those in hot climates. If seniors do not have AC in their homes, they can take advantage of public places. Libraries, movie theatres, coffee shops and shopping centers all have AC. Taking a cool bath or shower is a good option as well. Other easy options involve cool cloths and ice packs. Make sure these are handy at their home for a quick grab when needed.
Know the signs of heat illnesses
Keep an eye out for any signs that seem off or out of the ordinary. Sudden redness in the face, dizziness or nausea are red flags. Sit them down in a cool place with a glass of ice water and take a breath. Any chest pain, erratic breathing, rapid heartbeat or sudden headaches should all be taken seriously. Seek medical attention if it gets worse.
Don’t forget about your pets either. You need to make sure they are safe and healthy during the hot summer months too.
Do you have any additional tips you’d like to share? Feel free to share them in the comment section of this post.
Kimberly
*This is a guest post. There was no compensation. The opinions expressed are that of the author and do not necessarily reflect my own.
Janet W. says
These are great tips for any age group, really! I try to limit my time outside during the peak temperature hours.
Edye says
I love that you shared this post! Such an important topic to share!
Robin Creager says
Great tips! I see elderly in our neighborhood that I worry about as I know no one visits them. I do see them puttering in their yards and I keep my eye on them when they do. Thank you for bringing this to our attention and reminding us.