Tips for Helping Seniors Manage the Summer Heat
While many Oregon residents welcome the fresh air and abundant sunshine that summer brings, summer can also become a dangerous time when temperatures climb to the high 80s, 90s, and occasional triple-digit numbers. For seniors who are living independently at home, summer can pose significant health risks, so it’s essential to check in on loved ones and ensure that they are staying safe when the weather is hot.
Only about half of Southern and Central Oregon homes have central AC. If your elderly loved one is among the many Oregonians living without air conditioning at home, the months of June through September may be challenging.
They may have a harder time getting restful sleep at night because of high indoor temperatures, and they may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses like heat cramps, heat rash, and heat stroke. To help your senior loved ones stay healthy and comfortable this summer, follow these helpful tips.
Check in on elderly loved ones often during the summertime
When the forecasts show daytime temperatures above 90 degrees or overnight lows above 60 degrees, be sure to check in on your senior relatives more often. Watch for signs of heat illness, including fatigue, nausea, excessive thirst or sweating, swelling and redness of the skin, headaches, and muscle weakness.
Limit outdoor activities to the morning hours
If your loved one enjoys daily walks, gardening, or other outdoor activities, encourage them to limit these activities to the early morning hours and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection while outside. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen will feel cooler and more comfortable. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are also essential for sun protection.
Keep the fridge stocked with plenty of hydrating beverages
Seniors may experience issues like decreased thirst sensation, poor kidney function, or cognitive impairments that make it more difficult to stay hydrated. Help your elderly loved one remember to drink plenty of fluids by keeping the fridge stocked with filtered water, fruit juices, electrolyte beverages, and non-caffeinated iced tea. You might also keep foods like sliced fresh fruit and veggies on hand, as these can also provide hydration and essential nutrients. Encourage your loved one to avoid alcohol and caffeine entirely.
Review medications with your loved one’s physician
Some medications may make seniors more sensitive to heat or more likely to become overheated, while others may increase the likelihood of sunburns. Tagging along to your loved one’s medical checkups can give you an opportunity to review their medications and understand these potential side effects so you can better prepare.
Locate nearby cooling centers
With 90-100 degree days becoming more common every summer, more cooling centers are operating in Medford and Redmond during extreme heat events. Along with emergency cooling centers, look for local libraries, shopping malls, and movie theaters with air conditioning so you have a place to bring your loved ones when it is simply too hot to remain at home without any AC.
You might also consider investing in a window unit or portable air conditioner for your loved one’s home to help them stay cool at all hours of the day during the summer months. These units can be effective for cooling bedrooms and smaller homes, providing some much-needed relief during the hottest days of summer.
Create a daily routine for reducing indoor temperatures
Effective planning can help mitigate high indoor temperatures, so help your loved one develop a daily routine to ensure their comfort. For example, opening windows after the sun goes down and closing them first thing in the morning will help direct cooler air into the home throughout the evening. Close window shades early in the morning to keep the sun out during the hottest parts of the day and use fans to circulate air throughout the home.
Avoid using appliances like the stove and oven, opting for the microwave instead. For appliances like the dishwasher and dryer, run them at night when the temperatures outside have dropped.
If your loved one needs some extra assistance at home to keep them safe and comfortable, New Outlook Home Care is here to help. With in-home caregivers in Redmond and Medford, OR, we provide care for elderly adults who want to retain the independence and comfort of living at home while getting the assistance they need to manage their health and wellness.
From medication management to housekeeping to companionship, we provide the essential services your loved one needs to age with dignity. Contact us today to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our compassionate caregiving specialists.
