We all know how uncomfortable the dog days of summer can be, especially in the final August stretch. Although it’s still the summer season and there are still plenty of ways to enjoy yourself, high temperatures and intense sun can take its toll, especially on aging adults.
As caregivers, it’s up to us to be extra aware of heat-related health concerns, home safety pitfalls, and hazards that can compromise general well-being at this time of year. Preparation and proactivity can make all the difference when it comes to navigating these challenges, which is why SYNERGY HomeCare has devised a list of key summer safety tips to carry your family through the final stretch of summer.
Beating the Heat
Hydration & Meds: Simple Rules to Prevent Dehydration
Dehydration is a very real threat to older adults in the summer months, especially if they rely on certain day-to-day medications that affect thirst and fluid retention. Even if your older loved one doesn’t “feel” thirsty, encourage constant water intake and make sure they don’t overindulge on caffeine. Certain snacks, like fruit and popsicles, can also be a source of hydration.
Dress Cool & Protect Skin: Light Fabrics, Hats, Sunscreen
Dressing cool is also important, not in the fashion sense, but in terms of safety. Picking “summer colors” is a real trend to be aware of for a reason – lighter colors absorb less sunlight and lighter fabrics like cotton and linen make for more breathable attire.
Plan the Day: Avoid Peak Sun (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Sunscreen is always a must in the summer. Even on overcast days or cooler afternoons, sun protection should still be worn. Even sunglasses or hats can limit direct exposure to the sun and protect skin from potential melanomas and protect your loved one from tiring out. A rule of thumb is to avoid activities in the direct sun during peak hours, between 10 AM and 4 PM.
Home Improvement
Keep the Home Cool: AC Checks, Fans, Curtains & Ventilation
It’s always good to be proactive when it comes to making sure your house is ready for the heat. Check that air conditioners and fans are working properly, that the curtains or shades can adequately block enough sunlight, and make sure that key living areas are ventilated. If an air conditioner is on the fritz during a particularly hot stretch of days, invite your loved one to your house or bring them to an air-conditioned public place like a library or shopping center.
Make Spaces Safer: Clear Clutter, Fix Rugs & Floor Hazards
Regardless of the season, your loved one’s home should be safe and accessible, especially if they need to spend time indoors for their own well-being. Make sure that light bulbs are working properly, remove clutter that could block pathways through frequently trafficked areas of the house, and keep important things in easy-to-reach places.
If you notice something awry in your loved one’s house, like a loose floorboard, a carpet that doesn’t want to stay flat on the ground, or an uneven step on the front porch, now is the time to address it. These can all be potential tripping hazards for your loved one if left unchecked, and a hot summer day makes for the perfect time for a little inside home maintenance.
Get Support: Free In-Home Safety Assessment
If you’re unsure that you can properly evaluate the safety of your loved one’s home this summer, SYNERGY HomeCare is more than happy to help. They and their team of trained professional caregivers can visit your loved one’s home at no charge to provide a free in-home assessment, which will identify any hazards you might have missed.
For more information on how you can limit an older loved one’s risk of falling or other potential hazards in their home, you can download SYNERGY HomeCare’s fall prevention guide, here, or call 877-432-2692.
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SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us to learn how we can provide additional support to you and your loved ones.
