Summer is just around the corner
Here we are in the middle of spring and I just checked the ten-day weather forecast – temps in the mid-eighties and beyond are on the horizon! I had to laugh the other day when several of the grandkids commented about how hot it was outside. Just wait.
As the weather heats up, it is a good time to remind caregivers of measures they can take to prevent heat-related problems.
It is important to remember that seniors are often more susceptible to the effects of hot weather than younger folk. Some conditions such as diabetes or dementia may decrease awareness of being overheated. Medications such as diuretics or tranquilizers may make an elderly person more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
There are several simple steps caregivers can take to make their loved ones comfortable and safe during very warm and hot weather months.
When the temperature soars, always provide plenty of liquids. Water is absolutely the beverage of choice every day, but especially on hot ones. Caffeinated, alcoholic and heavily sugared drinks (such as sodas and sweet iced tea) should be avoided, as these can actually contributed to dehydration. For those with respiratory disorders or heart disease, consuming too much of a caffeinated beverage in hot weather can even cause serious health problems. Fruit juices (choose those that are 100% juice, not fruit “drinks” with lots of added sugar) and decaffeinated unsweetened iced tea are preferable – well maybe not for taste but for health purposes. It is also a good idea to offer lighter meals and include foods high in water content such as fruits and vegetables.
The second important consideration is to stay in a cool environment when possible. Some elderly people still deplore air conditioning, but most have grown accustomed to it. Still, they may prefer much less cooling than you do. Compromise may be in order. Floor or ceiling fans can be utilized when needed and providing a light sweater for someone who is cold-natured is always appropriate when the air-conditioner is running. I am hot-natured and still enjoy running an oscillating fan even when the thermostat is set at or close to 74 degrees. Not only does it provide a pleasant skin-cooling breeze but I find the rhythmical, soothing sound that emanates from it conducive to relaxation.
When possible, elderly people should avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day – usually 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Never leave an aged or frail person in direct sunlight for an extended period. Make sure they are dressed appropriately in lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and do not forget protective garb such as a hat and sunglasses. Ask the health care provider about the use of sunscreen.
Check the local weather and stay inside when there is high humidity or air pollution alerts. Physical activity – especially out of doors – should be curtailed in summer and avoided on excessively hot days.
If your loved one complains of feeling too hot, first provide a cold beverage. A washcloth wrung out in cool water and applied to the face, arms and back of the neck may help. A “Goldilocks” shower – one that is not-too-warm nor too-cold but just right – would be an appropriate measure to provide relief if other means do not help.
Be aware of symptoms of dehydration such as dizziness, headache, confusion, increased heart rate, and decreased urine output or urine that is very dark with a strong odor. If these continue or worsen, seek medical attention.
Even those who are not caregivers need to be aware of problems the elderly often face when hot weather assails us. It is a good time for all friends and neighbors of seniors to be aware of potential heat-related problems. Go out of your way to keep an eye on the older residents in your neighborhood, especially if they live alone. Stop by with a basket of fresh strawberries or a bunch of grapes, ask how they are feeling, and let them know you are close by if they need assistance.
There’s nothing we can do to avoid those soaring temperatures, so be prepared and stay cool!