Throughout the entire long, cold winter, we eagerly anticipated the heat of summer. What a relief to finally throw open the windows and let the warm breezes blow through the house! Yet now that we are getting into the dog days of summer, it is important to take preventative measures and familiarize ourselves with common heat-related illness symptoms in older adults in order to keep them safe all season long.
Why Heat & Humidity Impacts Seniors Differently
We know that kids can spend hours playing outside in the summertime, almost never breaking a sweat. Young adults are out mowing the lawn, gardening, even jogging despite the high temperature. For seniors, however, there are physiological differences that noticeably increase the risk for dangerous health issues once the weather heats up. Poor circulation, chronic illnesses, inefficient sweat glands, medications, and more are not unusual in aging, and can bring about:
Signs to Watch for
Be on the lookout for these symptoms whenever an older adult you love spends time in the heat and humidity:
How to Help
In the event that you notice any of these symptoms, the individual needs immediate medical attention. Call 911 and have the person lie down in a cooler environment. Place a cool, damp cloth on the older adult’s wrists, neck, armpits, and groin. If possible, have the person sip on juice or water, but nothing with alcohol or caffeine. A spray bottle full of cool water may also be used to mist your senior loved one.
The most effective plan of action, however, is prevention. Following these suggestions can help older adults safely enjoy the summer season:
Morning Glory Home Care, providers of award-winning home health care in Alton, IL and nearby areas, is here to help make the warm weather safe and enjoyable for older adults. We can:
Reach out to us at 618-667-8400 for a complimentary in-home consultation for additional details on our top-rated home health care in Alton, IL and the surrounding communities.
“I’m going to clean the bathrooms more often.” “I’m going to force myself to run…
Coughing. Shortness of breath. Wheezing. If you’re taking care of a loved one with COPD,…
Aging is accompanied by a set of common changes. Shifts in eating and sleeping habits,…
Ready or not, the holiday season has arrived! As you prepare for family get-togethers, there…
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and with more than 130 million Americans diagnosed with the…
If you have ever felt underappreciated and unrecognized in your role as family caregiver, this…
This website uses cookies.