Extreme temperatures can be dangerous for seniors, especially seniors who have Alzheimer’s. Protecting seniors with Alzheimer’s from heat-related illness is a priority because they often can’t recognize or communicate their discomfort in the heat. Seniors with Alzheimer’s also may not be able to take appropriate steps to cool themselves down. Alzheimer’s care can help keep seniors safe from extreme heat. With Alzheimer’s care, seniors are protected from wandering in the heat as well as heat-related illnesses.
When seniors with Alzheimer’s are living at home and dealing with intense summer heat, some of the things that caregivers should do to protect them from heat-related illnesses are:
Run Air Conditioning Consistently
To keep the inside temperature low it’s important to keep the air conditioning on. It’s also a good idea to run fans in several rooms to get the cool air circulating throughout the house. Seniors who don’t have central air conditioning in their homes should have a window air conditioning unit installed to make sure that the house doesn’t get dangerously hot. Ideally there should be two window units. One placed in a senior’s bedroom to help them stay cool at night, and one in a living room or central room where it can cool off the rest of the house.
Keep Them Hydrated
Seniors with Alzheimer’s often can’t tell when they are thirsty. And if they are thirsty they may not be able to communicate to their caregivers that they are thirsty. So caregivers should be encouraging seniors to sip on cool water throughout the day. They can also offer other cool drinks like juice to ensure that seniors are properly hydrated. Popsicles made from fruit juice are also a good way to keep seniors hydrated in the heat.
Make Sure They’re Dressed For The Heat
Seniors with dementia may put on sweaters, sweatshirts, or other clothing that will increase their chances of overheating. It’s very common for seniors with dementia to be unaware of the temperature. Alzheimer’s care providers can make sure that seniors are wearing loose fitting cotton or linen clothing. Natural fibers clothes that aren’t tight will help air circulation which can dry sweat and keep seniors cooler.
Limit Outdoor Activities
Seniors with Alzheimer’s shouldn’t be outside during the warmest parts of the day. If it’s necessary for seniors to go out they should go out early in the day. Caregivers should schedule doctor’s appointments, haircut appointments, and other activities for seniors with Alzheimer’s early in the morning.
Use Cooling Accessories
Use cooling accessories such as cooling towels, misting fans, or cooling vests to help seniors stay comfortable in hot weather. These items can help reduce body temperature and prevent heat-related illnesses.
Monitor for Signs of Overheating
Caregivers should regularly monitor seniors with Alzheimer’s for signs of overheating. These signs may include excessive sweating, flushed skin, dizziness, weakness, nausea, or confusion. If any of these symptoms are observed, immediately move the senior to a cooler place and offer water.
If you are considering Alzheimer’s care in Houston, TX for an aging loved one, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
At Your Side Home Care, provides exceptional home care for seniors and families in Houston, West Houston, Katy, Memorial, The Heights, Spring Valley, Garden Oaks, Hunters Creek, River Oaks, Hilshire Village, Galleria, Cinco Ranch, Spring Branch, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenburg, Piney Point, Bay City and surrounding areas.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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