The caring professionals at Victoria Landing Waterfront Assisted Living and Memory Care in Melbourne, FL share their senior care expertise and CDC recommendations
We’ve made it to the middle of the summer, yet high temperatures in Florida will continue well into the Fall. While summer heat may be fun for kids, it can be dangerous for seniors as they are more prone to preventable heat-related health problems. Why?
- People aged 65 years or older do not adjust to drastic, abrupt temperature changes the way children and younger adults do.
- Often, they have underlying medical conditions impacting the body’s ability to quickly adapt.
- Prescription medications also can alter the functions of excreting perspiration (sweat) and temperature.
Caregivers Checklist
- Be vigilant when visiting. If you’re caring for an elderly person who is not residing in an assisted living care community, it is recommended that if you can, visit your senior twice per day at least.
- Heat distress. Are they exhibiting obvious signs of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, muscle cramps, sunburn, or heat rash? If so, seek medical care immediately. *Symptoms of these serious conditions can be found at Heat Related Illnesses (cdc.gov).
- Confirm hydration. Are they drinking enough water?
- Cooling sources. Do they have access to air conditioning, battery powered or electric cooling fans? (Fans should not be considered the main or only cooling source during scorching heat events). If not, move them to your home or a safe place during the heat wave.
- Encourage a cool shower or bath. During your visit, if it is safe to do so, encourage your loved one to take a cool shower or bath while you are standing by.
- Stay informed. When extreme temperatures reach certain levels, there will be local advisories you can access for them via television, the internet, text alerts, etc.
Seniors Checklist
- Stay indoors in air conditioning. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, contact your local health department to locate an air-conditioned shelter in your area.
- Pre-hydrate. Don’t wait until you’re dehydrated to drink more water than normal. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and substitute hot beverages for a decaf iced coffee or tea.
- Check with your doctor if you are on a limited fluid diet or taking medication that limits fluid. Ask how much you should drink during extreme heat conditions.
- Avoid using appliances that make homes hotter. Hot temperatures outside don’t need to become hot temperatures inside by cooking. Consider a cold summer salad, fruit smoothie, or other cold nutritious foods.
- Limit going outside. If you must go out, do so in the early morning or late evening. Wear lightweight, light color and looser clothing and sunscreen.
- Take cool showers or baths to cool off. If you are unable to, cold wash cloths or towels are helpful too.
- Avoid strenuous activity. This is your excuse to rest more and exercise less!
- Be a good neighbor. If you are in a senior living community, check on a neighbor and ask them to check on you.
Providing Seniors Independence and Personal Care in a Vibrant Place They Can Call Home
Whether it is summer or any other season of the year, as much as you would like to always be there for your aging family member, sometimes it is just not possible. Rest assured, our compassionate and highly trained professionals are here for you and your loved one. Victoria Landing Waterfront Assisted Living and Memory Care in Melbourne, FL is a premier resort-style senior living community with incredible views of the Indian River and Historic Downtown Eau Gallie. Call us today to learn more about how our residents experience luxury, comfort, a vibrant lifestyle, and peace of mind.
*Source: Heat Stress in Older Adults | Natural Disasters and Severe Weather | CDC
