VISITING ANGELS FT WORTH, TX 817-877-1616
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Summer Safety Tips for Homebound Seniors

Although summer technically begins in late June, those living in the Fort Worth area have already had the privilege of enjoying summer temperatures. Summer often means heat and humidity. While younger kids and adults look forward to keeping cool in backyard swimming pools, the heat and humidity can present a challenge to the senior population. 

Seniors often have a difficult time managing the hotter temperatures. According to the National Institute on Aging, normal changes in skin and sweat glands can put adults over the age of 50 at greater risk for heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Common prescription medications that seniors take to manage chronic health conditions can also contribute to their risk for such heat-related illnesses. While some seniors have a strong support network who can help support them through the hot summer months, other seniors live alone or don’t have a readily accessible support system in place. Homebound seniors are especially at risk for heat exhaustion and heat stroke because they may not even be aware of the dangers lurking in their own home. With summer on the horizon, here are a few summer safety tips for homebound seniors.

Keep the Air Conditioning Running

Indoor temperatures can quickly reach dangerous levels on hot days, unbeknownst to idle seniors. Prevent this by keeping the air conditioning on throughout the day and night. Program the thermostat to kick on when the indoor temperatures reach a certain degree. If you’re concerned about an aging loved one who’s homebound, consider installing a smart thermostat that you can monitor from the convenience of your smart phone, no matter your distance apart.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is the root of many heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Seniors are especially at risk for dehydration because their thirst sensation diminishes with age. Stay hydrated all summer long by making a habit of drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning and before each meal. Keep a water bottle filled and near where you lounge during the day. Reach out to your primary care physician if you take water pills or have been told to limit your fluid intake. Your doctor can recommend how much water you should drink when the heat and humidity are high.

Stay Indoors During Peak Hours

Plan your day around the peak hours of the day to avoid heat-related illnesses. Heat and humidity can creep indoors, especially when the heat index is high. Avoid heading outdoors during the peak hours of the day in order to prevent heat-related illnesses. Enjoy fresh air earlier in the morning or later in the evening. Exercise safely indoors before the temperatures climb to the high of the day or choose to read a book instead. Choose lighter, breathable clothing as well, to prevent the buildup of heat on your skin.

Keep Your Phone Nearby

Another summer safety tip is to make a habit of carrying your cell phone with the ringer on with you throughout the day. Place it in a small purse that you can wrap around your body or place it in a pocket so that it’s always nearby. When you do head outdoors for some fresh air, call a family member or friend to let them know where you’ll be. Ask them to call you back in an hour to make sure that you made it safely indoors. If you start to feel dizzy, light-headed, overheated, nauseous, or have difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately. These are all signs of a heat-related illness and should not be taken lightly.

Cool Down

Finally, if you start to feel warm, take a tepid shower. Avoid hot, steamy or ice-cold water temperatures in order for your body to return to a normal body temperature. If you don’t have time for a shower or feel unsafe showering without assistance, soak washcloths in cool water, wring out, and place them on your neck, wrists, and ankles. Remember, if you at all feel overheated, even after a tepid shower, call 911 immediately.

If you are looking for additional resources to stay safe this summer, look no further than Visiting Angels Fort Worth. We specialize in senior home care and offer assistance with personal care, meal planning and preparation, friendly companionship, light housekeeping, respite care, and more. We work with each of our clients to create an individualized plan of care that meets all their senior care needs. We are here for all seniors, but especially those that are homebound and need a little more support to thrive. Let us give you and your family peace of mind this summer. Please contact us by calling 817-877-1616.

Serving Fort Worth and the Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels FT WORTH, TX
930 W 1st St # 203
Ft Worth, TX 76102
Phone: 817-877-1616
Fax: 817-334-7994

Serving Fort Worth and the Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels FT WORTH, TX
930 W 1st St # 203
Ft Worth, TX 76102
Phone: 817-877-1616
Fax: 817-334-7994