Most of us love being outside in the summer when the weather is warm and the sun is shining. The kids will be back to school soon, so you need to make the most of it while you can. But these are the dog days of summer, a time when the heat and humidity can be deadly, especially for seniors (as well as infants and pets).
Below are 3 tips to help you keep your senior loved one safe during these dog days of summer:
- Make sure their air conditioning is working properly. If they don’t have air conditioning, make sure they have plenty of fans where they live. Many seniors tend to be cold anyway, but you don’t want their residence to be too hot. Spend some time with them so you get a sense of the climate in their home.
- If they go outside regularly, suggest that they go in the morning or evening hours when the temperature is lower and the sun isn’t so hot. If they have to be out mid-day, make sure they dress appropriately so they don’t get too much sun exposure. We all love the vitamin D from the sun, but only with the proper protection for our skin! Make sure they have on a hat and loose, light clothing. If you can, be outside with them in the morning or evening. Take a walk, go for ice cream, sit on the porch and watch the sun set.
- Have them drink plenty of water. Did you know that the average person sweats about a quart of fluid every day? We would suggest that everyone drink plenty of water all year long, but it is especially important in the hot summer months when we sweat even more. You don’t want your loved one to become dehydrated. Make it easy for them; have a cup out on the counter so they can easily reach for it and get some water.
At Assisting Hands® Home Care, our skilled caregivers will make sure the seniors in our care are in the proper climate, whether inside or outside. Whether you need someone to be with your loved one during the day, in the evening or overnight, our at home care can accommodate your needs. You will have peace of mind knowing that they aren’t home alone when they need help with medication, fall prevention, personal care, eating or other needs.
Contact us today to schedule your free in-home fall prevention assessment at (630) 352-assistinghands.com/3656/chicagoland-naperville/”>click here.