Summer conjures up feelings of vigor and adventure in us. For the elderly, though, this can be a cause of stress. They miss the good old days and mourn the loss they are experiencing, but they are also undergoing physiological changes that make them more sensitive to extreme temperatures.

The summer season is in full swing in the United States right now. So it's time for you to take responsibility for paying greater attention to your aging parents and ensuring that they are in good physical and emotional health.

If you can't be there for them when they need you for any reason, or if you need help caring for your elderly parents, Senior Home Care Services can help.

Today, we're going to share some recommendations that will come in handy while caring for elders this summer.

1. Make sure they are well hydrated.

While this recommendation may seem self-evident, it is important to remember because the elderly dehydrate more quickly than younger individuals.

But why do older people require more hydration than younger people?

• When people get older, they have a harder time recognizing their thirst than when they were younger.
• With age, the way their bodies sweat changes.
• Diuretics (or water pills) are used by many seniors to manage high blood pressure, kidney disease, and other disorders that cause excessive fluid loss.

As a result, make sure that the elder members of your family drink enough water and stay hydrated throughout the day, especially while venturing out on hot days.

2. Make certain they adhere to the skincare regimen.

The volume of flesh beneath the skin decreases with age. As a result, elders require more advanced skincare to avoid UV damage.

How can you protect your elderly parents from sun damage?

• Get them a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that protects them from both UVA and UVB radiation.
• It's not enough to buy sunblock. You could gently encourage your elderly parents to apply sunscreen to exposed places such as their ears, tops of feet, backs of hands, and even upper lips before going out.
• Make sure they're dressed in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. During warmer weather, it will make them feel more at ease, cool, and tranquil.
• Encourage children to protect their eyes and heads from the sun by wearing hats and sunglasses.

 

3. Encourage them to stay inside when the weather is too hot outside.

Going outside and exercising in open places is beneficial to seniors, particularly those who have experienced isolation and loneliness. It allows them to get some fresh air, improve their mood, and maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. However, being outside throughout the day while temperatures are high can be risky for them.

When is the greatest time for seniors to go outside during the summer?

Seniors should avoid the noon sun by going outside early in the morning or later in the evening throughout the summer. The sun's rays are highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

As a result, throughout both the summer and winter seasons, and especially at higher altitudes, the elderly should avoid going out during these hours. When seniors are indoors during the hottest portion of the day, if possible, turn on the air conditioner.

 

4. Keep an eye out for hyperthermia symptoms.

Hyperthermia is a risk for seniors who are exposed to high heat during the day. As a result, the caregiver should be on the lookout for hyperthermia and heat-related disorders.

 

• Hyperthermia Symptoms
• Sweating excessively
• Severe thirst
• Exhaustion and fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sudden exhaustion

Keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke, which include a fast or weak pulse, deep breathing, no sweating, red and heated skin, confusion, and fainting.

We realize how difficult, exhausting, and overwhelming it may be to provide senior care at home. Consider employing Senior Home Care Services if you require assistance. It's the best thing you can do for both your elderly parents and yourself.