The long, hot days of summer are perfect for outdoor adventures or relaxing in the fresh air. If you have seniors in the family, then you know that they have to take extra precautions before having fun in the sun. Here’s what families need to know about providing senior care this time of year.

How Hot Weather Affects Seniors

While no one enjoys soaring temperatures and humidity, these seasonal conditions affect seniors in specific ways. They’re more prone to dehydration and rapid increases in body temperature that can contribute to heat stroke, exhaustion, or syncope. Many of these conditions have similar symptoms:

• Dehydration: Characterized by muscle weakness or cramping, headaches, and dizziness. In severe cases, a person may pass out.
• Heat Stroke: Symptoms include red, hot skin; a body temperature over 103 degrees Fahrenheit; headaches; and dizziness. The person may also become nauseated or confused.
• Heat Exhaustion: This condition also causes muscle cramping or weakness, dizziness, and nausea. The person may also appear pale and clammy.
• Heat Syncope: This occurs when a person faints due to prolonged heat exposure.

If any of these happen to your loved one, it’s crucial to provide them with cool water to drink and cold compresses to help stabilize their body temperature. Giving them sugar-free sports drinks helps restore their electrolyte balance and combat dehydration.

Medical assistance may be necessary in cases of heat stroke or exhaustion, especially if your loved one has high blood pressure or a heart condition. Otherwise, bring them to an air-conditioned space as soon as possible.

How to Practice Effective Senior Care in the Summer

Stay Hydrated

Drinking eight 8-ounce glasses a day may be enough to stay hydrated under normal circumstances, but seniors should drink more during the summer. Thirst is the first symptom of dehydration; however, people lose this sensation as they age. Give your loved one a water bottle with markings to show how much they should drink at timed intervals and when to refill.

Dress in Layers

Surprisingly, dressing in lightweight layers can help seniors regulate their body temperature. Long sleeves and pants provide valuable protection from sun exposure or a strong air conditioner, and light fabrics like linen and cotton are breathable enough to minimize the risk of overheating.

Check Medication Side-Effects

Prescription management is a critical part of senior care because some medications make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Read all packaging carefully or check with a doctor or pharmacist before spending the day outside. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen throughout the day also protects against the sun’s rays.

For quality senior care that adapts to your loved one’s changing needs, trust West Vue to provide safe, comfortable accommodations. Their two locations in Howell County, MO, offer everything from an independent retirement community to comprehensive rehabilitation and nursing care. They’re proud to be part of the Green House Homes® program and hold themselves to the highest standards. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (417) 256-1292 to book a tour.