During the warm summer months, many people start enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, swimming, and barbecuing. Spending time outside can be a great way for seniors to stay active and boost their mood, but it can come with some potential risks. The hot temperatures, insects, and storms associated with summer may cause several health issues for older adults. Here are a few summer safety tips older adults should consider.
Always Wear Sunscreen
Seniors have thin skin, so they are more likely to be sunburned. It’s important to apply a sweat-proof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever your aging loved one will be out in the sun. Make sure to reapply the sunscreen every few hours if your loved one plans on staying outdoors for a long time.
From applying sunscreen to wearing protective clothing, older adults may need help guarding their skin against the sun’s harmful rays. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care. Carmichael Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Stay Hydrated
Seniors who go outdoors during the hot summer months face greater risk of dehydration than those who stay indoors. To help your loved one stay hydrated, encourage him or her to frequently take small sips of a beverage. Plain water can be quite helpful, but your loved one can also benefit from drinking electrolyte-fortified beverages, as they promote hydration.
Never Swim Unsupervised
Swimming alone is not advisable for seniors because a simple accident can quickly turn deadly in the water. If your loved one enjoys swimming as a form of exercise, make sure there is someone out on the pool deck who can assist him or her or call for help in case of an emergency.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your loved one needs help managing simple exercises. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elderly care. Carmichael Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Keep an Eye Out for Ticks
Ticks carry many dangerous blood-borne diseases. Prevent your loved one from getting into areas that could be infested with ticks. When in wooded areas, encourage your loved one to wear repellent and fitted clothing that covers the hands and arms. After hikes, check carefully to ensure no ticks are hanging on your loved one.
Beware of Overheating
Seniors may have difficulty accurately gauging their body temperature since the nervous system becomes less sensitive with age. It may take a while for your loved one to notice the signs of overheating. Keep an eye out for flushed, pale, and clammy skin, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. These could all be signs your loved one is overheated.
Use an Effective Insect Repellent
Insects are not just problematic because they cause itchy bites. Summer pests can also spread Zika, which be dangerous to seniors with weak immune systems. Repellents with DEET, permethrin, and picaridin can keep insects away. However, if you or your loved one has health concerns about these repellents, there are plenty of natural options with lemon, eucalyptus, and citrus essential oils that can keep bugs away.
Ensuring your loved one’s safety during the hot summer months could take a toll on your own health. Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you are caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Carmichael families who want to avoid burnout can turn to Home Care Assistance. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. To learn about our premier in-home care options, give us a call at (916) 485-4663 today.