Summer is the perfect time to head outside and catch the sunshine! Whether you're hitting the beach, lounging next to the pool or trying out the newest ice cream stand, it's undeniable that this sunny season is great for outdoor living. While summer is fantastic for enjoying warmer weather, it's important to take precautionary measures to stay cool during downtime at home especially for you or an elderly loved one. When we age, our bodies have a decreased ability to cool down after periods of intense heat exposure. Therefore, seniors have a much higher chance to develop hyperthermia, or heat-related illnesses during the summer. Risk factors of hyperthermia range in severity from heat edema (swelling of the ankles and feet) which can be treated over time, to heat stroke which is caused by prolonged body overheating and requires immediate medical attention.Protect yourself or your loved ones this summer by using these five simple tips to stay cool at home!
Stay Cool Overnight
Sleeping is a vital time to take extra measures to stay cool because the body is unable to completely and effectively respond to heat. To make sure your loved one's sleeping arrangements are safe and cool at night, be sure to equip yourself with the best set up. To start, choose an adequate base like a gel mattress that promotes proper air circulation. While a new mattress can be expensive, there's plenty of discount options available that will provide comfort and ease. Next, accessorize with moisture-wicking sheets, pillowcases and comforters that ensure heat does not get trapped. For an added touch, take advantage of cooler summer nights by:
- keeping a window cracked open to allow fresh air to flow through
- or, air conditioner set to a regulating, comfortable temperature
- or, having a quiet fan running.
Try Using Cool Packs
Lowering your body temperature is the best way to prevent harmful effects of heat. Cool packs are perfect to try out if you're feeling uncomfortably warm. The body has several areas that promote quick cooling so try placing cool packs in areas that contain pulse points. Some cool packs are even hot and cold compatible, meaning you can keep cool by popping it in the freezer or heating it up in the microwave. They can provide relief for pain from both acute and chronic injuries. It's a versatile and useful item to have at home for wellness!
Stay Hydrated
Water intake is always essential to day-to-day health. We tend to sweat more during the summertime heat, so it's especially important to keep hydrated. Alongside water, you can also enjoy some fresh juice or even smoothies to get some nutrition intake as well. Check out some of our hand-picked healthy smoothie recipes. Another note is to keep some ice cubes on hand so you can pop a few in your water or beverage to cool down the temperature even more!
Keep Your Blinds Closed
Block the sun's rays from allowing heat to build up in a specific space. In rooms that are not frequently used or when leaving the house, pull blinds to shut out light from entering rooms. This tip may also help save on electricity bills when vacationing for an extended period of time and air conditioning is not as dire of a need.
Don't Shut Off the A/C
Heat can accumulate very easily inside the home. Rather than shut the A/C off while away, keep it on to make sure the air temperature is maintained throughout the day. If you're looking to save a couple bucks, try some of these DIY air cooling tactics that are known to be pretty effective.
Consult a Doctor
Knowing the health-related factors that could increase a senior's chance to succumb to heat-related illness ahead of time can help keep one safe. Some common risk factors that become more serious with age are heart/lung/kidney diseases, taking prescribed medication or being over/underweight. Therefore, be sure to record any pharmaceuticals seniors are taking to ensure that they are using them accordingly. There are a lot of different organization techniques for medication management you should try if you aren't using one yet. Be sure to look at the big picture, and try to use holistic efforts to stay cool at home.We've got some more articles on summer and seniors! Check out:
