10 Ways to Beat the Summer Heat
By keeping your senior parent or relative cool and well hydrated, you can help them enjoy the summer weather in Boulder County, CO, while also making sure they stay healthy
Summer is here and many seniors like to spend as much time outside as possible. Although soaking up the sun has its benefits, spending too much time outdoors or even inside with closed windows and no air conditioning can lead to many health conditions. That is why each and every caregiver that works for Visiting Angels of Boulder County, CO, recommends that seniors follow these 10 guidelines during the upcoming heat waves.
1. Open the windows
Seniors sometimes don't feel that their body is overheating, which can be very dangerous. Therefore, make sure to open windows when it is hot outside so that the air can circulate and keep your rooms cool.
2. Maintain a suitable temperature during a car ride
Seniors need fresh air and it is easy to get overheated when you are in a closed car during the summer. So, don't forget to open a car window during a trip.
3. Don't spend too much time in the sun
Spending too much time outside during the heat waves can lead to skin disease, sunburn, overheating and exhaustion. Make sure your loved one stays inside or in the shade from 11am to 5pm.
4. Hydrate properly
It is easy to get dehydrated during the summer, especially for seniors since they tend to lose fluids a lot faster than younger generations. You or your caregiver can ensure your loved one drinks plenty of water during the day.
5. Avoid vigorous physical activities
During a heat wave, avoid gardening, mowing the lawn, and other physical activities that are stressful.
6. Stay cool during a workout
Although your loved one should exercise during the summer, every caregiver will recommend that you stick to swimming or taking part in activities in air-conditioned facilities.
7. Sun and medications don’t mix
Keep in mind that some prescription medications can have negative side effects if your loved one spends a lot of time in the sun. Therefore, read the warning labels before your parent or relative leaves their home.
8. Wear sunscreen and bug repellent
Don’t let bugs and sun ruin your summer comfort. Keep bug spray and a sunscreen on hand and apply them regularly.
9. Check up on your loved one
During those summer days when it is too hot outside, your or your caregiver should check up on your loved one on a daily basis. That way you will be able to monitor their safety and health.
10. Pay attention to the warning signs of heat exhaustion
If your loved one feels nauseated, dizzy, or has a headache, it is possible that they are having a heat stroke. Make sure you keep them hydrated, find a cool place, and contact their doctor.
Visiting Angels of Boulder County is a leading provider of non-medical in home care services for seniors. To learn more about the in-home assisted living services provided by our staff of compassionate caregivers, please call our Longmont office at (303) 828-2664 or contact us for more information.
Visiting Angels proudly serves Allenspark, Boulder, Eldorado Springs, Erie, Hygiene, Lafayette, Longmont, Louisville, Lyons, Nederland, Niwot, Pinecliff, Ward, and the surrounding areas of Boulder County, CO.