Ah…the great outdoors! Summer is officially here and you can feel it. The past few weeks out in our hometown of El Paso TX have been HOT! There’s no denying it, summer is here. Break out the bathing suits, flip-flops and barbecue grills, its time to spend some time on the outside…. But how do we keep our seniors safe during these “spicy” months?
First off, lets understand a few basic principles, according to the National Institute on Aging, high summer temperatures and heat waves greatly effect older adults, simply because their bodies have greater difficulty in regulating body temperature which increases the risk of heat stroke. Below are three great steps to make sure you and your loved ones safely enjoy the next few months…
1. Always wear appropriate attire, remember that lightweight clothing including shorts and lighter looser T’s are ideal for seniors as they will help keep them fresh, always remember sunscreen as well!
2. Be prepared for your activity, if you are going outside avoid peak temperature times, if you have to be out during peak times make sure you are in a location where water and shade are easily available.
3. Most importantly remember to stay hydrated, keeping water, clear juices and sports drinks readily available, if you are a caregiver, keep a close eye on your senior for signs of dehydration, and remember make note of any medications that could increase risk as a result of prolonged exposure to the sun.
So remember as we head out these summer months, don’t forget to think ahead to ensure the safety of your loved ones! As always, be blessed!
