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.
The summer sun is hot and many parts of the country are experiencing severe heat waves. With the warm days of the season upon us, it is much easier to overextend ourselves, especially our elderly loved ones. No matter how much you prepare for the heat, there is always the possibility that your aging loved one could be negatively affected but the blistering summer sun. This is why it is so important to understand and be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke to better prepare for immediate care when needed.
The most common signs and symptoms of heat stroke include an abnormally high body temperature of about 105 degrees, disorientation and general confusion, throbbing headache, speeding pulse/heartbeat, having a hard time breathing including rapid or shallow breathing, seizure, red and flushed dry skin with no sweating, agitation or irritation, dizziness and lightheadedness, nausea and vomiting, as well as hallucinations. Each person who suffers from heat stroke will experience it differently depending in a myriad of factors specific to their circumstances. Remember that the sooner you recognize the issue in your elderly loved one, the sooner you will be able to get help your senior needs.
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 are 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. Our elderly loved ones 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. Senior Helpers of Chattanooga are here to provide the in-home senior help they need to beat the heat this summer!
If you would like to learn more about caring and consistent in-home help for the elderly and the many benefits of professional in-home senior care, call Senior Helpers of Chattanooga to speak to a senior care specialist today 423-710-1500! In home senior care and in-home assisted living 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. When you and your family are considering the many options available to help your elderly loved one cope with Alzheimer’s or other dementia related disease, look to Senior Helpers of Chattanooga, to make a customized care plan complete with Senior Gems geared to their ability level. Senior Helpers of Chattanooga proudly offers in home senior care to all areas of Chattanooga, Hixson, Cleveland, Ooltewah, Signal Mountain. Services are available on a long- or short-term basis with no contract to sign and flexibility in scheduling. Call 423-710-1500 today to learn more about productive activities to help your elderly loved one to find a sense of value and purpose in their life.