Seniors may look forward to spring and summer so that they can get outdoors and enjoy everything there is to do in warmer weather, but that might mean dealing with allergies. An allergic reaction is the body’s response to some type of irritant, whether that’s pollen or an insect bite. Coping with spring and summer allergies is a lot easier with the help of personal care at home.
Know Their Allergy Triggers
If seniors already know what they’re allergic to, that’s half the battle. Something that seniors need to realize is that they can develop new allergies later in life. They might suddenly become allergic to certain foods, for instance, or find that they experience a bigger reaction to insect bites than they used to. Doctors can help aging adults determine what their allergic reactions mean.
Topical Ointments and Antihistamines
Topical ointments and creams that contain antihistamines or steroids are great for seniors to keep on hand in case of allergic reactions on their skin. Because seniors experience skin changes as they age, even a small bite can lead to bigger problems. Scratching thin, fragile skin can cause wounds that are more difficult to heal. Home care providers can help seniors to apply creams and remember to keep applying them as recommended on the labels.
Cotton Gloves Can Help Avoid Scratching
Too much scratching can have long-term impacts for seniors, especially if they have issues with high blood sugar. One solution that can help, especially overnight, is for seniors to wear cotton gloves on their hands. These gloves are breathable and lightweight, but they keep fingernails from gouging sensitive skin. If gloves aren’t an option, simple cotton socks help, too.
Stick to Lukewarm Showers and Baths
If seniors are dealing with allergic reactions on their skin, taking lukewarm showers and baths is much better than using hot water. Hotter water irritates the skin and can cause allergic reactions to feel even worse. Avoiding water that is too hot reduces possible irritation and can facilitate healing. Personal care at home can help seniors to keep water temperatures cool enough to let their skin heal.
Nasal Steroids and Oral Antihistamines
Pollen allergies are extremely common during spring and summer. Plants and trees are coming alive again, and their buds release a lot of pollen that can be incredibly irritating. For many seniors, over-the-counter oral antihistamines and nasal steroids can help a lot. They need to talk with their doctors before self-medicating, though. Avoiding exposure to pollen also helps. Home care providers can help seniors remember to keep air filters running and change out furnace filters to keep up with dust and pollen.
Warm weather is wonderful after a long, cold winter, but it can bring allergens that cause tons of problems for aging adults. Personal care at home can help seniors try out different solutions to manage the issues that spring and summer allergies can bring. Staying on top of some of these concerns can lessen their effects and keep seniors healthier and happier.
If you or an aging loved one are considering personal care at home in The Heights, 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: (713) 231-5640.
At Your Side Home Care, provides exceptional home care assistance 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