We all know that June in Alabama is hot, hot, hot!
For people with chronic medical conditions, and for people 65 and older, that heat can be especially dangerous, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s because those people may have difficulty adjusting to temperature changes, and/or they may be taking medications that make them more vulnerable to heat. If you’re a caregiver, it’s important to know how to keep your care partner safe and help protect them from any heat-related reactions. This month, as we fully launch into summer, read up on some tips that’ll prepare you and your loved one to have safe fun in (or out of) the summer sun.
- Be aware of the temperature and prepare accordingly. Stay on top of any excessive heat warnings in your area, and make sure that you and your loved one have access to cool spaces when those warnings are in effect. If you don’t have air conditioning in your home, call 2-1-1 for assistance in finding a cooling center in your area, or talk with people at local senior centers.
- Plan your day to avoid the heat. The sun’s rays are the hottest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. On especially hot days, map out your schedule so that you’re in a cool, shady place during those hours. Try and plan any appointments and outings for early morning, before the mercury rises.
- Drink lots of water. Research shows that older adults drink significantly less water than their younger counterparts, and may be at risk for dehydration. Be sure and have water constantly available so that your care partner can drink it throughout the day, even if they say they’re not thirsty. If they are less inclined to drink plain water, try adding flavor to it, like a squeeze of lemon or orange, or a slice of cucumber. Give them a portable, reusable water bottle to make hydrating convenient (and environmentally friendly).
- Know the signs of dehydration. According to the Mayo Clinic, thirst may not be a good indicator of dehydration in older adults, because they can be dehydrated and not be thirsty. However, extreme thirst could be an indicator, along with less frequent urination, dark urine, dizziness, fatigue and confusion. Further, Mayo Clinic says to seek medical attention if a person has bloody or black stool, can’t keep fluids down, has had diarrhea for at least 24 hours, or if they’re irritated, disoriented or less active/more sleepy than is customary for them.
- Find indoor activities that are good for your body and mind. Don’t think of the summer heat as a deterrent to being active, but as an opportunity to find new and different activities indoors that you can do with your care partner. Make a list of places you’ve been meaning to go (just make sure they won’t overheat you), whether it’s a museum, shops, art gallery, swimming pool, bowling alley, community center or other space, and start checking them off throughout the summer.
- Avoid alcohol. As a diuretic, booze can put a person at greater risk of dehydration. Plus, when people drink they often think that those beverages are hydrating or quenching their thirst. Spoiler alert: they’re not!
- Choose cool clothing. Opt for lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes to help keep cool throughout the summer, and protect eyes from the sun with sunglasses that block UV rays. Don’t forget to bring along a hat or umbrella to block those rays.
- Protect your skin. Sun block is important at any temperature, even if you’re trying to avoid spending too much time outside. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher that is water resistant. Apply it at least 15 minutes before you go outdoors.
- Eat for the season. Who wants to turn the oven on when it’s steamy outside? Instead, stock up on items you can eat without heat, like salads, fresh fruits, cut-up vegetables, dips, yogurt and other items. Think of it like a picnic, but indoors.
- Check in frequently. If you live apart from your care partner, be sure and keep tabs on how they’re doing during times of excessive heat. It might help to be in touch with a friend or neighbor, too, who is laying eyes on them and can report back any changes they might notice.
- Know the signs of heat-related illness. “Hyperthermia” is the name of heat-related illnesses, which can include heat stroke, heat exhaustion and other heat-related conditions. The CDC lists the following symptoms to look out for:
- Heat stroke: High body temperature (103 or higher); skin that is hot, red, dry or damp; fast pulse; nausea, dizziness; headache; confusion; loss of consciousness. If you think someone is experiencing a heat stroke, call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cool place and try to bring their temperature down. Don’t let them drink anything.
- Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating; skin that is clammy, pale and cold; pulse that is fast and weak; nausea/vomiting; muscle cramping; tiredness and/or weakness; headache; dizziness; passing out. If you think someone is experiencing heat exhaustion the CDC says to move them to a cool place; lower their body temperature using cool, damp cloths, a cool bath or change of clothes; have them sip water. If they are vomiting, experiencing worsening symptoms or experiencing symptoms for longer than an hour it’s time to seek medical attention.
12. Talk to your care partner’s doctor and pharmacist. If your care partner has health conditions such as heart disease, mental illness, obesity and/or poor blood circulation, they may be more at risk for heat-related illnesses. In addition, some medications can cause heat intolerance. Your primary care provider and your pharmacist can offer personalized insights and advice on how to keep them healthy and safe throughout the summer.
For older people and people who live with certain chronic illnesses, heat and humidity can be taxing—even if it doesn’t feel that hot and humid to you. Do what you can to help them prepare for those hot summer days, and allow for flexibility to avoid the sun when possible. If you have any concerns about your loved one and heat, be sure and talk to a healthcare provider and ask their advice.
