Summer has arrived and with it, the hot weather. Although most of us enjoy seeing a burst of sunshine after the cold and rainy seasons. However, hot weather can sometimes become too much to handle, particularly for the elderly.
Here, we have compiled a list of suggestions to keep your elderly loved ones safe and cool this summer whilst still helping them to make the most of the season’s benefits.
Remember, if you need any extra help we’re here for you with comprehensive home care in Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and the surrounding areas.
Timing means everything
Your elderly loved one will want to get out and experience the delights of the season, but it’s important to be careful during hot weather. The sun is hottest between 11am and 3pm so it’s advisable to avoid outdoor leisure between these hours. However, keep your eye on the
weather forecast for any sudden changes when planning a trip outdoors.
If your loved one has a garden, cooler periods can depend on which direction the outdoor space is facing in relation to the sun. So make sure this is assessed prior to any long periods spent in the garden.
Self-care in the sun
Most of us are familiar with ways to protect our bodies when we’re exposed to hot weather conditions. However, it’s important that you support your elderly loved one in practicing these too. If you’re out and about, make sure they have plenty of water handy and encourage them to drink it regularly.
Use a high SPF sun cream on your loved one, being extra vigilant not to miss anywhere. Sunglasses are also advisable to protect eyes from harmful UV rays, and a hat can provide additional respite from the sun.
In the home
When outdoor heat gets too much, it’s wise for your loved one to opt for some time indoors. However, being inside your home can sometimes feel hotter than outside, particularly during a heatwave.
Some of the ways you can keep your elderly loved one safe, comfortable and cool in their home are by:
● keeping blinds down or curtains drawn during the day and night, even in rooms they’re not using
● keeping windows closed if it’s cooler inside than out
● encouraging them to wear light-colored, lightweight clothing
● keeping them hydrated
● monitoring indoor temperatures and using this to consider where to store any medications (most must be stored below 25°C)
● checking their skin every month, making sure there are no obvious changes to the size and shapes of moles.
Stay alert to any changes
While considering all of the above, it’s also vital to be mindful of possible heat-related incidents so that you can act quickly in the event of an emergency. Ways the body can be affected by the heat are:
● dehydration, leading to confusion, cramps, dark urine and feeling weak
● heat exhaustion, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea and a fast heart rate.
If left untreated, either of these could cause more severe medical complications so it’s advisable to familiarise yourself with the signs and
symptoms of these heat conditions further.
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