Seniors & Summer Heat - Tips For Caregivers

Today's forecast in the Niles & Chicago area is a high temperature of 98 degrees with up to 74% humidity, and a "feels like" temperature of just under 100 degrees.

There are likely to be many days in the next few months where seniors are especially at risk in the heat.  Caregivers should take precautions to lower the risk for their senior.  Here are some tips:

• Stay inside during the hottest hours, and stay in the shade when outside
• Drink water! Lots of it!  Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• If the senior does not have air conditioning, go to a mall, movie theater, library or a cooling center in Chicago or one of the nearby suburbs which is set up for elderly individuals in need.
• Don't wait outside for a bus, taxi, shuttle, or other ride.  Wait inside.
• Wear loose fitting clothing, and lighter colors which will absorb less of the sun's heat.  Cotton and other natural fabrics work best.
• Know the signs of Heat Stroke.

Stay alert!  If you know an elderly senior in Niles, Chicago, or elsewhere who may be at risk, check on them.

Thanks for reading!

Michael Melinger

mmelinger@homeinstead.com

Home Instead Senior Care

Caregivers & Companions, Live-In/Hourly, Meals, Housekeeping, Errands, Personal Care

Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette - 847-673-1250

Niles, Park Ridge, Morton Grove, Des Plaines - 847-518-1400

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www.HomeInsteadChicago.com