9 Essential Tips for the Elderly to Stay Safe in Summer
Summer can be a delightful season filled with sunshine, social activities, and time spent outdoors. However, for the elderly, it can also present several health risks. According to the NHS, Children, the elderly, and people with long-term health conditions (such as diabetes or heart problems) are more at risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. As a leading UK care at home service provider, Call-In Homecare is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our service users, especially during the hotter months. Here are some essential tips to help the elderly stay safe and enjoy their summer.
Hydration is Key
One of the most critical aspects of staying safe in the summer is maintaining proper hydration. The elderly are more susceptible to dehydration due to a lower capacity to conserve water, a diminished sense of thirst, and the potential effects of medications. Encourage your loved ones to drink plenty of fluids, ideally water, throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as they can contribute to dehydration. Call-In Homecare’s home care professionals are vigilant in ensuring that service users are reminded to drink regularly and recognize the signs of dehydration.
Dress Appropriately
Wearing suitable clothing can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and safe during the summer. Lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing helps keep the body cool by allowing for better air circulation and reflecting sunlight. Hats and sunglasses are also essential to protect against harmful UV rays. When providing care at home, our team at Call-In Homecare ensures that our service users are dressed appropriately for the weather and are educated about the importance of proper attire.
Stay Indoors During Peak Hours
The sun’s rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these peak hours, it is advisable for the elderly to stay indoors to avoid the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If outdoor activities are necessary, ensure they are scheduled in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Our home care services can include planning daily activities to avoid peak sunlight hours on hotter days, helping service users maintain their routines without compromising their safety.
Monitor Medications
Many elderly individuals take medications that can increase sensitivity to sunlight or affect hydration levels. It’s crucial to review all medications with a healthcare professional to understand their potential side effects during the summer months. Call-In Homecare’s home care assistants are trained to monitor medication schedules and are aware of the potential interactions and side effects that could impact our service users during hot weather.
Sun Protection
Applying sunscreen with a high SPF is essential for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. The elderly have more delicate skin, making them more prone to sunburn and skin damage. Sunscreen should be applied generously and re-applied every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. At Call-In Homecare, our staff assists in applying sunscreen to ensure that our service users are adequately protected when they venture outdoors.
Keep Cool
Maintaining a cool environment is vital during the summer. Ensure that living spaces are well-ventilated and use fans or air conditioning to keep the temperature comfortable. If air conditioning is not available, consider visiting public places like shopping malls, libraries, or community centres that offer a cool respite. Call-In Homecare’s home care services include regular checks of the living environment to ensure it remains within a safe and comfortable temperature range.
Recognise the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Being able to identify the symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke is crucial. Signs include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and rapid heartbeat. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention if symptoms like confusion, fainting, or a high body temperature occur. Our care at home service professionals are trained to recognize these signs and take swift action to provide the necessary care.
Plan Regular Check-Ins
Regular check-ins, either in person or via phone, can provide peace of mind and ensure that the elderly are coping well with the heat. Family members, friends, and home care providers should establish a routine to check on elderly loved ones, particularly those living alone. Clece Care Services emphasises the importance of these check-ins and incorporates them into our home care routines to ensure constant support and safety for our service users.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet can help in maintaining energy levels and overall health. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, which have high water content, to help with hydration. Avoid heavy meals that can increase body temperature. Our home care assistants can help with meal planning and preparation, ensuring that our service users receive nutritious and hydrating food options.
At Call-In Homecare, we are passionate about providing the highest quality care at home for our service users, especially during the challenging summer months. By following these tips, the elderly can enjoy a safe and pleasant summer. Our dedicated home care professionals are always ready to offer tailored services to support the unique needs of each individual, ensuring they remain safe, healthy, and happy in their own homes.
