As our loved ones age, they can not handle the hot weather as well as they did when they were younger. The do not perspire effectively and their circulation is poor. In addition, various medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, dementia and other chronic conditions add to their risk. Certain medications such as those ordered for hypertension and Parkinson's also affect the body's response to the hot weather.
The obvious plan would be for your loved one to stay in air conditioned buildings, dress in light weight, light colored clothing and to drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated. However that can be easier said than done.
Because of their poor circulation, many older individuals feel colder when in air conditioning, often reaching for a sweater. That's fine provided they do not keep the sweater on when they go outside.
Keeping your loved one hydrated may sound easy enough but again, issues associated with being older may make that task difficult. Because of the possibility of a diminished sense of taste, many older individuals do not like to drink plain water preferring something with flavor that they can taste. These types of drinks however often contain too much sugar or caffeine. Caffeine in itself can be dehydrating.
Caregivers should be alert for signs of heat problems when caring for an aged loved one, especially a loved one suffering from dementia. Be alert for signs of increased confusion in individuals who have been out in the hot weather. (Of course in dealing with someone with dementia, you need to determine if the increased confusion is a result from the heat or a progression of the disease) Be on the lookout for other signs such as an increase in body temperature, lack of sweating --despite the heat, nausea and vomiting, and dizziness. If you feel your loved one is overheated, move them to a cool area, loosen their clothing, apply cool cloths and try to hydrate them.
If an individual passes out due to the heat, it should be considered an emergency and 911 should be called. If you are in doubt as to the severity of your loved ones condition due to exposure to the hot weather, always seek medical attention.
Other tips to protect your loved one in the hot weather:
- If they complain about the air conditioning, turn it up a degree or two.
- To keep the house cooler, close the blinds and/or curtains
- Offer plenty of fluids but stay away from iced coffees and other highly caffeinated drinks
- Avoid drinks with a high sodium content that can be bad for the heart
- NEVER serve alcohol! Not only is it dehydrating, but it will also react negatively with any medication being taken.
- Keep frozen treats available that are high in water content but low in sugar, such as sugar free Popsicles
- Serve fruit high in water content such as watermelon
- Remove all inappropriate clothing from the closet. Leave only light weight, non form fitting clothing that is light in color.
- Encourage the use of loosely wooven, wide brimmed hats that are well ventilated when they are outside
Nearly 400 Americans die each year during heat waves, most of these victims are elderly.
Please do not let your loved one become a statistic.
If you have need further suggestions on how to keep your loved one safe, please give Victorian Garden Adult Day Center a call at 973-635-2266 or email us at vgadc@aol.com. Visit our Facebook page at Victorian Garden Adult Day Center.
