The summer is an opportune time to get your senior loved one more active in the sunshine. But there are many health factors to consider when providing elderly assistance in the summertime, from heat exhaustion to dehydration. To help them stay safe, use the following four tips.

A Guide to Summer Elderly Assistance

1. Plan Activities Accordingly

Seniors have a difficult time adjusting to the heat because of age-related bodily changes and health conditions as well as medication that impairs the ability to regulate temperature. To combat this effect, stick to light exercise outdoors and schedule it during non-peak times. For example, take a leisurely stroll either early in the morning or evening to avoid overheating.

2. Monitor Hydration

Even if your senior loved one isn’t spending hours in the sun, make sure they hydrate frequently with the correct fluids. Caffeine and alcohol both have a diuretic effect that dehydrates the body faster. Encourage them to drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water and electrolyte-infused beverages daily, or more if they’ll be active. 

3. Ensure Efficient Cooling

Your senior loved one isn’t only at risk of heat stroke or exhaustion when outdoors; they can also experience this indoors if their air conditioner isn’t working properly. Check the air filter and flow of their unit to confirm it’s working efficiently; otherwise, bring in a professional for maintenance or repairs.

4. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat stroke, exhaustion, and dehydration can sneak up unexpectedly if you don’t know their symptoms. Signs of heat-related illnesses include confusion, dizziness, fatigue, heavy sweating, and nausea. If your loved one presents any of these signs, seek prompt medical assistance.

You don’t need to do everything alone. This summer, seek elderly assistance from the professionals at CareResource Hawaii in Honolulu. The premier in-home care business has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® and provides all the services you need to take care of your aging loved one, from full and part-time hours to medical care from registered nurses and certified LPNs. Visit their website to discover more about their care services, or call (808) 599-4999 to arrange for professional elderly assistance for your loved one.