Beating the Summer Heat and in Home Care for Seniors
For most of us, summer conjures up images of swimming pools, beaches, barbecues and camping. The air conditioner is running daily, but it’s worth it! Soaring temperatures may make most hearts sing, but it can be dangerous for aging seniors to spend extended periods of time in the summer heat. It is vitally important that an elderly loved one stay cool and hydrated in the hot summer sun.
Keeping a bottle of water always nearby will help a loved one to remember to keep drinking. If your loved one is not as much of a fan of water, perhaps adding some flavoring or a piece of fruit will help to make the beverage more appealing. Having juicy fruits around the house such as citrus, watermelon, cucumbers and apples will provide healthy nutrients and some hydration when consumed as well.
When outdoors activities are planned for the day, remember to help an elderly loved one dress for the occasion. Loose-fitting, light colored clothes are best to prevent overheating. A sun visor and SPF 30 sunscreen is also helpful to avoid sunburn. Find shade or bring an umbrella whenever possible. If there is a nearby building, seek air conditioned breaks often. Remember to keep hydrated.
The heat of the summer is here and it is important to remember some vital safety tips for senior loved ones. The elderly are more prone to heat related illnesses and are more susceptible to dehydration risks. Heat stroke is a very serious heat related illness and any indication of heat stroke is a medical emergency. Elderly people do not adjust as well as younger people to sudden changes in heat and may be taking prescription drugs that do not allow their body to regulate its temperature or may inhibit perspiration. It is very important to make sure that your elderly loved one is receiving the type of senior care they need, especially in the hot summer months.
If you would like to learn more about caring and consistent in home senior care and the many benefits of professional elderly care or dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to a senior care specialist today 805-687-7777! The compassionate senior care specialists at Senior Helpers can also guide you through the process of receiving the Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Benefit if your elderly loved one is a veteran. In home senior care allows your loved one to stay in the comforts of their own home for as long as possible while receiving the level of care they need. Senior Helpers of Santa Barbara provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal assistance, companionship, and so much more to all areas of Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and Carpinteria, California.