Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. However, it’s important to respect the heat and take precautions. Sun and heat exposure can be particularly dangerous for seniors. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), older adults may be more at risk of overexposure to heat because they do not adjust as well as young people to sudden temperature changes. Dehydration in seniors is a major concern.
Our Brookhouse Home residents have the advantage of a sea breeze in summer. We can watch when a storm rolls in or fog lifts and the hot summer sun comes out. However, like everyone else, we need to follow the simple rules to avoid overheating. So, the CDC suggests, more than ever we need to drink water regularly, and not wait until we are thirsty to start drinking water.
Know these signs
It is important to know the signs of dehydration which include thirst, irritability and poor skin elasticity. Heat and dehydration can increase confusion and may make people more prone to dizziness and falls. Hydrating on a regular basis is the most important preventative measure. Individuals should drink fluids even when not thirsty as thirst may not be triggered until already dehydrated.
Heat exhaustion can develop after exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluids. Warning signs may include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting; pulse may become fast and weak, or breathing fast and shallow.
Heatstroke occurs when the body loses its ability to sweat, and it is unable to cool down. Body temperatures can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 – 15 minutes. If emergency treatment is not provided, heatstroke can cause death or permanent disability. Any indication of heatstroke is a medical emergency; seek immediate medical attention immediately.
Here are some safety tip reminders for seniors in summer:
Drink water regularly. Do NOT wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking water.
Wear loose-fitting clothes.
Take showers to cool down.
Maintain the heating and air conditioning system in your home, so your home cools properly.
If you don’t have air conditioning, consider staying with a friend or family member during a heatwave. It may be enough to take an “air conditioning break” at a local mall or library during the heat of the day.
Don’t overwork yourself, and make sure you rest.
Have others check up on you, and vice versa.
Wear sunscreen and clothing to protect yourself from sunburns, which make it hard for your body to cool down.
When outside in the heat, wear a hat, try to stay in the shade, and move slowly so you won’t become overheated.
Seek medical care immediately if you have symptoms of heat-related illness like muscle cramps, dizziness, headaches, nausea, weakness, or vomiting.
Stay indoors during the hottest hours; generally between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Move activities indoors. Consider walking in a mall or limit workouts to an air-conditioned gym.
