Summer can be a challenging time for older adults, especially when it comes to staying safe in the heat. While we can enjoy the sun and all that comes with it - lounging in the garden, munching on ice cream to stay cool, refreshing dips in the paddling pool - extreme heat can also be quite challenging. Heatwaves have been known to cause heart attacks, strokes, lung problems and other nasty diseases for those who are vulnerable, so you need to know how to keep your loved one safe.
At Bluebird Care Wakefield and Kirklees, we want to make sure our customers stay healthy during these next few weeks as the temperatures rise, so here are our 4 top tips to help keep your elderly loved ones safe during the summer months or a heatwave:
Stay hydrated
Encourage your loved one to drink plenty of water throughout the day. This can help prevent dehydration, which can be a serious problem for older adults, especially during the summer months. If they struggle to take frequent drinks, healthy fruits such as melon and snacks like ice pops and lollies can help keep hydration levels up.
Keep cool
Make sure your loved one's home is well-ventilated and that they have access to air conditioning or fans. Encourage them to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day to avoid sunstroke, exhaustion and overheating. Leaving curtains and blinds closed in rooms facing the sun can help create a cooler environment too.
Dress appropriately
Light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing such as t-shirts, trousers and dresses can help keep your loved one cool and comfortable. Try to avoid thicker materials such as wool and cotton as these can cause overheating and irritation.
Check in regularly
Make sure to check in regularly, especially during heat waves or other extreme weather conditions. Even if all you have the time for is a quick phone call, that could still give you some indication of how your loved one is coping this summer.
If you spot anything out of the ordinary such as unexpected tiredness, frequent headaches, intense thirst or confusion or heavy breathing, we would suggest moving your loved one into a well-ventilated room and swapping their clothes for something a little more breathable to avoid the risk of heatstroke.
By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your elderly loved ones this summer.