Summer Safety for Homebound Seniors
The hottest days of summer are here, as August unleashes every last bit of heat and humidity before the seasons change in late September. This summer has already achieved record high temperatures for the region, forcing many Midwesterners to stay indoors. Those choosing to stay indoors and avoid suffering heat stroke may think that they are making a wise decision. For the most part, yes, staying inside when it’s just too hot 
and humid outdoors is often the best decision. Yet, even indoors, the heat and humidity can still put older adults at risk for heat stroke if proper precautions aren’t taken. 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 a few weeks left of summer, here are a few summer safety tips for homebound seniors.
Drink Plenty of Water
Even if your plans involve staying indoors on those hot, humid days, staying hydrated is still very important. Dehydration is the root of many heat related illnesses, even when avoiding the outdoors. Most older adults don’t even realize that they’re thirsty because their thirst sensation decreases with age. Start by drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning and before each meal, even if you’re not thirsty. Then, pay attention to signs of dehydration, particularly in the bathroom. Urine is a great indicator for how hydrated you are — clear and pale is good, bright and yellow is a sign of dehydration. Check with your doctor if your doctor has limited how much water you can consume or you’re on water pills. They can inform you how much water to drink on hotter days.
Monitor the Indoor Thermostat
Another summer danger for homebound seniors is sitting around in indoor temperatures that are too hot. Many seniors may not even realize that the indoor temperature is reaching a dangerous level because their bodies adjust to the hotter temperatures as it slowly rises over the day. Even worse, they may choose to turn off the air conditioning in order to save money. Help prevent the indoors from becoming too hot by programming the air conditioning to kick on once the temperature has reached a certain point. If you sit around the home most of the day, sit in an area with a ceiling fan or use a floor fan to help circulate air. If you’re concerned about your aging loved one’s home thermostat, consider installing a smart thermostat. You can then monitor and regulate their thermostat from the convenience of your smart phone.
Carry a Cell Phone
Another summer safety tip is to carry your cell phone with you around your home. It should always be within reach, so keeping it nearby in a pocket or purse is the best option. Ask a family or friend to call you on hot days to ensure that you’re staying healthy and safe. If you do venture outdoors to your patio or front porch, call someone before going outside and then again after you’re safely indoors. Be sure to stay indoors during mid-day hours, especially when the heat is extreme. If you at all feel overheated, dizzy, nauseous, have a rapid heartbeat, chest pains, or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
Take It Easy
Finally, take it easy on days when it’s especially hot and humid. Heat and humidity can creep indoors, without you even realizing it. Avoid exercise and strenuous activities on those hotter days, even if it doesn’t feel so hot inside. Instead, relax in the cool environment. Opt for chair yoga instead of aerobic activity. Choose to read a book or watch a movie instead of organizing your closets. Fetch the mail before or after the mid-day heat.
If you, or your aging loved one, is looking for additional resources to stay safe this summer, Visiting Angels South Elgin can help. We provide families with respite care, friendly companionship, personal care, hygiene assistance, meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping, and more. We work with each of our clients to create a customized, personal care plan that meets all your elder care needs. We can check in with your homebound senior to give you peace of mind knowing they are staying safe and healthy on those hot, summer days. Please contact our office today by calling 847-429-0100 so that we can set up a free consultation.