Summer is a time for play, fun, and relaxation. However, every summer, thousands of people, young and old, suffer from heat-related issues. Elderly individuals are at greater risk of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration because their bodies don’t effectively regulate body temperatures. That doesn’t mean your elderly loved ones can’t enjoy summer.
Check out these top 5 tips to help seniors beat the heat this summer:
1. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
One of the most important things you can do is to know the signs of a heat stroke or heat exhaustion. A heat stroke is severe and requires medical attention. Symptoms include hot dry skin, confusion, fast heart rate, and a temperature of at least 104°. Heat exhaustion is not as severe and includes fainting, cold pale skin, extreme thirst, and excessive sweating.
2. Wear Proper Clothing
Dark-colored clothing is known to absorb heat. Wear light colors that will reflect the sun and keep you cooler. To help keep your body ventilated, wear loose-fitting cotton clothes, as well as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.
Elderly individuals are at greater risk of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration because their bodies don’t effectively regulate body temperatures.
3. Stay Indoors During Extreme Heat
During the hot summer weather, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep your body temperature regulated. During this time, it’s best to keep your elderly loved ones indoors to keep them from overheating.
4. Stay cool
In addition to remaining indoors, ensure elderly individuals have access to air conditioning. Many elderly people choose to use fans to try to stay cool, however these are not adequate during extreme heat conditions. If possible, your loved one may need to stay with family or friends until it’s safe to return home.
5. Drink Plenty of Fluids
5. Drink Plenty of FluidsNothing could be more important than staying hydrated during the hot summer months. Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks. Although water is one of the best options to maintain hydration, sports drinks can replace the electrolytes your body loses during perspiration
Final Thoughts
The summer heat does not have to keep your elderly loved ones indoors. They can still enjoy the summer by following these tips and protecting them from heat-related issues. So, grab your friends and family and enjoy summer fun activities!
