Summer Heat & the Elderly: Hot Weather Safety Tips for Seniors & Caregivers
Summertime is here, which means older adults and their families will be spending plenty of time enjoying the outdoors and the pleasant weather. While summer activities like swimming and playing outdoor sports can be enjoyable, they can also pose a risk of heat stroke and other heat-related conditions for older adults.
Regulating body temperature in hot weather is challenging for everyone, but even more so for older adults. This means that adults 65 and older can be more susceptible to being negatively affected by heat. Here is what older adults and caregivers need to know about staying safe in the summer heat.
Spotting Dehydration and Heat Stroke
Lack of fluids is one of the most common causes of heat stroke and similar conditions. Common signs of dehydration include:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Rapid heart rate
- Dark-colored and/or infrequent urine
- Low blood pressure
- Muscle cramps
If you notice any of these symptoms while spending time outdoors during the summer, it’s time to take a break indoors and drink plenty of water. Remember to drink room-temperature water when your body temperature is elevated, as ice-cold water can be shocking to the system and cause other issues.
Many of the signs of dehydration can also be early symptoms of heat stroke. Some other key signs include:
- Body temperature of 103 degrees or higher
- Dry, red skin
- Fast and strong pulse
- Loss of consciousness
All of these symptoms should be taken seriously when noticed in older adults. If you do notice them, make sure to get out of the sun immediately, and rest in a shady or air-conditioned area. If symptoms persist or the individual loses consciousness, call for medical assistance.
Additional Risk Factors for Seniors in the Heat
Difficulty regulating body temperature comes along with age. However, there are other factors that can make spending too much time in hot weather dangerous for older adults.
For example, many types of medication and health conditions can make individuals more susceptible to dehydration or heat stroke. This is especially true for seniors who are taking multiple prescription medications for different conditions at once. Additionally, drinking alcohol can increase the risk of heat-related conditions for older adults.
Tips for Staying Cool During the Summer
Perhaps the best way to prevent heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and other conditions this summer is to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. However, if you want to be able to enjoy the summer weather safely as an older adult, make sure to follow these helpful tips.
Drink Liquids Consistently
Staying hydrated can help to prevent a variety of heat-related conditions. When the weather is hot, drink more water than you normally would.
If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors and sweating, add some electrolyte drinks into your routine to maintain your hydration. Limit caffeine, alcohol, and other beverages that will dehydrate you rather than hydrate.
Wear Sunscreen Every Day
Most people know that you should wear sunscreen during the summer when the UV index is at its highest. Wearing sunscreen is even more important for older adults since the skin becomes naturally thinner with age, putting seniors at higher risk of sunburn or sun rash.
Make sure to wear sunscreen with a high SPF every day you plan to spend at least some time outside. Sunscreen shouldn’t just be reserved for beach days or laying by the pool, since it only takes a few minutes in the sun to get a sunburn.
Dress for the Weather
There’s more to dressing for warm weather than short sleeves and shorts. The fabric you choose is also vital, and you might be surprised to find that even the color of your clothing can make a difference in how heat-friendly it is.
Choose light, airy fabrics like silk, linen, and cotton over thick, less breathable fabrics like polyester or wool. Opt for lighter colors over darker colors, as dark colors can absorb more heat and make you feel even warmer.
Ask Your Doctor About Medication-Related Risk
Which medications you take and at what dosage could play a huge role in how your body reacts to elevated temperatures. Also, if you’re exerting yourself in the heat by playing sports, walking, or swimming, any health conditions that you’re treating with medication could put you at risk.
Before spending too much time outdoors in the heat this summer, ask your doctor for recommendations about staying safe from heat stroke based on your specific medication regimen.
Keep Safety at the Forefront This Summer
There are many fun activities to take advantage of during the summer months, from beach days and lying by the pool to playing with grandkids in the backyard and going for walks. By taking the proper precautions and prioritizing heat safety, you can still enjoy all of your favorite activities as an older adult.
If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of a plan to age in place, contact Family Matters In-Home Care today for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.
Some of the services offered by Family Matter In-Home Care include: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Bed & Wheelchair Transfer Assistance, Companionship, Housekeeping & Meal Preparation, Personal Care, Recovery Care, and Transportation.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater San Diego, Family Matter In-Home Care has offices throughout California.
