FAST FACTS:
- 2018 has already seen record high temperatures across the nation
- The Southeast has seen temperatures “much above average”
- Parts of the region have also seen record rainfall this year
The unbearable heat of the summer can be dangerous for everyone, but few are more susceptible to extreme health issues as the elderly. When the temperatures and humidity soar, the elderly are at risk.
As members of an assisted living community in Atlanta, we have seen the ravages of heat on our senior residents. We would like to share ways you can help your older loved ones stay safe on vacation, especially if they experience heat and humidity they aren’t used to.
1. STAY HYDRATED
One of the tricks that dehydration plays with your body is that you don’t feel thirsty. This is why it’s so important to stay hydrated. Make sure that your loved one is drinking plenty of water, even if they don’t feel the need to.
It may help to set an alarm on your phone or smart watch to ensure that your loved one is taking a drink of water every 15 minutes or so.
2. TAKE BREAKS
Our elderly loved ones often need more breaks than our younger family members. If you and your traveling party are walking, stop to take a break at least once an hour. Find a shady spot and sit down.
Drink some water and have a snack if necessary. Try to rest for between five and 10 minutes.
3. LIMIT ACTIVITY
It’s not unusual for people to try to cram as much as they can into a vacation, especially if it’s a new destination. If the temperatures are soaring, limit your activity to the early morning and evening hours.
If you must do something in the middle of the afternoon, be certain that you are in the air conditioning as often as possible.
4. USE SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen takes only a minute to apply and can save your loved one pain later. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied at regular intervals, even if there is no swimming taking place.
Read the instructions on the label to determine how often to reapply.
5. CHECK IN
Maybe your elderly loved one is traveling alone or you all are going separate ways for a day or two. Decide on times that you will check in with one another.
Determine what will be done if someone misses a check in or doesn’t answer a call or text.
TAKE A TOUR OF OUR ATLANTA ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY TODAY
Our Atlanta assisted living community has the health of all our elderly citizens in mind, particularly as the temperatures rise. If you have elderly loved ones, be sure to check on them on these hot, muggy days.
For more ideas on some great hot-weather activities or information on our assisted living community in the Atlanta Area, please reach out to our friendly team.
