5 Elder Care Safety Tips

Caretakers for the elderly have a vital job to protect the health and safety of an aging individual. As people age, there are increased summertime dangers which may not be realized by the individual themselves. If you have a loved one who happens to be a senior, be sure to educate yourself about common warm weather health risks, and watch for any signs that their caretaker is neglecting their needs.

Fluids
Seniors can easily become dehydrated. It’s important that they drink about eight 8-ounce glasses of water or fruit juices each day. Caffeinated beverages, like soda, coffee and tea, as well as alcoholic beverages, can actually cause dehydration—particularly in hot weather—and should be avoided when possible.

Clothing
Elderly folks should be dressed in loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers, like cotton. Light colors will reflect the sun and heat better than darker colors that will attract them.

Sunscreen
When they are outdoors in the summer, aging adults need protection from sun damage. That means wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher.

Extreme Heat
Older adults shouldn’t be outside on days of extreme heat or high humidity, because that means evaporation is slowed and the body must work much harder to maintain a normal temperature. Temperatures inside their home should not rise above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for any prolonged period of time.

AC
When an aging adult’s home doesn’t have air conditioning, they should be brought to a location that does. Movie theaters, malls, a friend or family member’s home, or senior center are all good options to get them out of the heat.