When you’re young, you cannot wait for summer. Vacation, endless days in the pool, going to see grandma and grandpa. Of course, some of your fondest memories revolve around the summer, they do for the elderly, too, but there is one crucial difference. The elderly cannot handle the summer heat as well as they could when they were younger. So, if you have a parent or grandparent living with your family, it’s important to bear in mind the following safety tips.
Make the proper changes
In order for older adults to remain in the comfort of their own homes, changes need to be made to meet their changing needs and for their own safety. Of course, there's no need to turn the house into a working site. Take it gradually and begin with the basics like de-cluttering (that way there will be more room for fresh air to come in and more room to move around easily), floors, bathroom and of course, the stairlift. For these changes, you will need an expert's opinion and luckily Age Co Mobility can answer all your questions and help you choose the right products for your loved one.
Turn Down the Heat
Excess heat puts everyone in danger, but those over 50 have an even harder time when the mercury rises. Even healthy people can succumb to heatstroke or other hot-weather-related illness. Age is one factor in a person’s ability to tolerate triple-digit temperatures, but other issues come into play, as well.
For example, there are reports that people with an existing blood vessel or heart trouble also have a hard time staying cool, as do those who suffer from kidney or lung disease. Those with fevers should stay out of the heat, and if your elderly loved one is on diuretics, high blood pressure, sedative, or other medication, he or she may have a hard time cooling off.
Enjoy outside
Other Protective Tips
Aside from indoor temperature control, how can you ensure your elderly person is cool enough throughout the summer swelter? The NIA offers wonderful advice to help your older family members beat the heat, and the first one is something everyone should do regardless of age: stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water or juice. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
Keep the house cool with your air conditioning and add some fans to help circulate the cool air. Ceiling fans are wonderful for this. Close all window treatments during the day and avoid using the oven too much if possible.
These are just a few tips to help ensure you and your senior loved one stay safe this summer months.
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