Ways to Help Seniors Beat the Heat

People who are most at risk for heat related illnesses are the very young, the elderly, people who are physically impaired, obese or those who have been prescribed certain medications.

Elderly people do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature. Seniors are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes the body’s normal response to heat. Seniors are also more likely to take prescriptions that impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or that inhibit perspiration.  

Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat:

• Prepare one gallon of water per person, per day, in advance and refrigerate.
• Stock up nonperishable, easily prepared snacks and fluids (juices, fruits, water).
• Avoid direct sun and the heat.
• Close blinds, drapes and windows to keep the heat out of the home.
• Minimize your activities during the hottest period of the day (11am-4pm).

Allow a Visiting Angels caregiver to help you or a loved one with daily tasks such as meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal hygiene assistance, errands or shopping, companionship and more. Having a caregiver to do shopping or errands and tasks such as taking the trash out can reduce the need to be outside in the heat and can reduce the risk for heat related illnesses.