Elderly Home Care Services in Somerset County Keep Seniors Safe in Summer
Most people would agree it feels nice to be outside after being stuck indoors all winter. Seniors are often anxious to get outside and go for walks, work in the yard, or just to enjoy being outdoors. As spring shifts into hotter summer months, it is important for elderly adults to be cautious. Avoiding sunburn, dehydration, and overheating will allow elderly loved ones to enjoy summer without threats to their health. Visiting Angels® of Morris and Somerset County NJ offers elderly home care services to provide companionship and assistance to seniors during the summer months.
Things Visiting Angels of Morris and Somerset County Can Look Out For
The heat of summer can pose risks for seniors due to an increased possibility of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Seniors sometimes don't recognize when they are becoming overheated. This combined with the effects of medications can put our seniors at risk. Because of our experience providing elderly home care services, Visiting Angels of Morris and Somerset County recommends being on the lookout for the following:
- Heat stroke is the most serious form of overheating for seniors, causing permanent disability and even death
- Heat exhaustion causes rapid pulse, muscle cramps, weakness, fainting, and can lead to heat stroke
- Knowing the signs of dehydration can help you get your loved one back on track before more serious illness occurs
- Dehydration may appear as increased sweating, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and confusion
- Be aware of the temperature in your loved one's home and the vehicles they ride in and help them stay cool
How You Can Help
You can help the seniors in your life by checking on them from time-to-time and doing the following:
- Encourage your elderly family member to save outdoor activities and chores for cooler times of day
- Read about your loved one's medications to see if they increase sun sensitivity or decrease sweating
- Make sure your loved one is remembering to drink plenty of water when outside on warm days
- Look for ways to get exercise indoors, such as walking at the mall or at an indoor track
- Check your loved one or neighbor's air conditioning to be sure it's working correctly and keeping them cool
- Look into hiring an elderly companion to check on your family member and keep them comfortable
Call Visiting Angels of Morris and Somerset County today to learn more about our elderly home care services.