Gearing Up for Summer Safety
Summer is on its way, and with it comes the promise of warm weather, long days and outdoor fun. But for senior citizens, summer can also pose some serious health risks. As we age, our bodies become less able to regulate temperature, making us more susceptible to heat exhaustion and dehydration. In addition, older adults may be more vulnerable to the sun's harmful UV rays, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and other skin conditions. With that in mind, it's important for seniors and their loved ones to take steps to stay safe in the sun and at home this summer. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the season while protecting your health.
Protect Your Skin
One of the most important things you can do to stay safe in the sun is to protect your skin from UV radiation. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming. Avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can be a serious problem for senior citizens, especially during the hot summer months. Seniors need to be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if they aren’t feeling thirsty. Water is the best choice, but sports drinks such as Gatorade or Body Armour, or even Pedialyte, which can help with quick hydration and absorption because of the electrolytes and/or sugar in the drinks. You also can drink fruit juice, tea or other non-alcoholic beverages. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, which can actually dehydrate you. If you are spending time outdoors, bring a water bottle with you and take frequent breaks in the shade to rest and rehydrate. A quick tip is to fill the bottle with lots of ice, and water to fill in the spaces, before you leave the home. As the ice melts, it will help keep the water cool. You also can freeze a filled water bottle the night before, and it will thaw in the sun, and provide you cold, refreshing water to help keep you hydrated.
Be Safe Out and About
Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy the world, but it's important to do so safely. If you're planning to spend time outdoors, let someone know where you're going and when you plan to be back. If you're going for a walk or hike, bring a friend or family member along, or join a group for added safety. Many senior groups have outings, where you can walk together, or even go on an adventure to a botanic garden, go hiking or visit a historic site. As you’re out and about, wear comfortable shoes with good traction, and use a walking aid if you need one. Be mindful of your surroundings, and avoid areas that are uneven or have obstacles that could trip you. Use common sense. Don’t walk alone in deserted areas, and don’t be out alone after dark. If you have one, be sure to bring a charged cell phone along just in case you need help, or need to tell someone where you are.
Take Precautions at Home
Even if you're spending most of your summer days and nights at home, there are still some precautions you should take to stay safe this summer. Make sure your home is well-ventilated and stays cool, especially during heat waves. Use air conditioning or fans to circulate the air, and keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun. If your home just can’t get cool enough and it is impacting your well-being, do not hesitate to call someone for help, even if it is the non-emergency or emergency police department.
Get Help if You Need It
If you're struggling to stay safe and independent this summer, don't hesitate to ask for help. Consider hiring a caregiver to assist you with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation. A caregiver can also provide an extra eye on senior citizens, and monitor them to help ensure they are staying hydrated, being safe and staying cool enough.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re looking for help with your senior loved one, we at Right At Home Salem, can come into your home and offer a free assessment to determine your needs. To find out more about the care options we offer for clients and their families in the Salem and Marblehead areas, call us today at (978) 705-4734. We can help tailor our care plans to meet your specific needs. Whether you need care every day of the week, or just a mid-week break, we are here to help local families.
If you have a calling to help others, join us. Right at Home Salem-Marblehead is looking for the Right People to join our team. We have immediate openings for in-home caregivers, Certified Home Health Aide and Certified Nursing Assistants. visit us online to see our open positions.
