What is the best way to beat the heat and stay safe during summer? Wisconsin summers can pose serious health risks for seniors. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, adults above the age of 65 are more likely to die from heat-related causes than any other demographic.
So, seniors ought to follow different heat safety tips to avoid heat-related illnesses. But you need the right setting for optimal aging wellness in summer. That's where assisted living in LakeHouse Cedarburg, WI, comes in.
The community ensures each resident receives attentive, personalized care to guarantee their well-being throughout the year.
Let's look into summer safety tips seniors can implement to stay safe and avoid harmful sun exposure.
Hydration for the elderly requires special attention as the thirst sensation decreases. Older adults have a reduced ability to conserve water, which means they have to drink more, especially during summer.
Drink plenty of fluids and aim for a water intake of about six to eight glasses daily. Other tips to ensure efficient hydration throughout the day include:
If you can't drink water, take hydrating treats like popsicles, homemade smoothies, and herbal teas. Create hydration stations and take alternative beverages if you can't access water. For instance, coconut water has more flavor and can be a great alternative if you want something more adventurous.
The structured daily routines of the assisted living in Cedarburg make it easier to remember when to drink water. Furthermore, the staff can provide supportive services, including support with daily living activities and amenities.
Use air conditioning and cooling devices to keep your home cool. If your HVAC system is not efficient, you can also use fans. Additionally, keep blinds and curtains closed to minimize sunlight.
It's advisable to avoid using heat-generating or electric appliances during the day. Appliances such as stoves and ovens can increase the indoor temperature of your home during summer.
Keep windows open and ensure good ventilation and air circulation. You can also use cooling towels and handheld fans to regulate body temperature while indoors.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services found that exposure to intense sunlight is one of the main risk factors for skin cancer. However, following senior summer safety tips can help you enjoy the outdoors while mitigating the risks to your health.
You should wear protective clothing if you will be outdoors during the summer. Buy UV clothing with a UPF rating 50+ to block UVB and UVA rays. Some of the clothing tips for hot sunny days of summer include:
Avoid being outdoors during hours of intense sunlight from noon to late afternoon. Stay close to shaded areas to minimize sun exposure. In addition to protective clothing, you can apply sunscreen for enhanced hot weather protection.
However, consult your physician and check the ingredients of sunscreens to ensure they don't cause any adverse reactions. Cedarburg Assisted Living offers planned events and activities that follow different outdoor safety tips implemented by our highly trained staff.
According to the World Health Organization, the mortality rate for heat-related deaths for people above the age of 65 increased by 85% from 2000 to 2021. These numbers show that following heat safety tips is crucial for seniors during summer.
Understanding the signs of heat-related illnesses can ensure that you promptly get help and medical intervention. Some of the symptoms of heat-related diseases include:
Many of the signs of heat-related illness can feel deceptively mild. But without intervention, the body temperature can continue rising and even go beyond 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Medications and certain chronic age conditions increase one's susceptibility to heat-related illnesses. So, it's vital to take adequate precautions to implement preventive strategies.
Seniors are more vulnerable to heat-related health issues, especially during summer. Unlike young adults, heat illness can progress quickly in seniors who have sustained significant exposure to sunlight.
Following heat safety tips involves maintaining a cool body temperature indoors and outdoors. Preventive strategies to optimize safety for seniors include hydrating, dressing appropriately, and avoiding the outdoors during peak sun hours.
Implementing summer safety tips is essential for the following reasons:
Adhering to all these safety tips can be difficult without the right support. Luckily, LakeHouse Cedarburg Assisted Living offers different amenities and services to support aging wellness in summer.
The assisted living community in LakeHouse Cedarburg greatly prioritizes senior summer safety. The staff is well-trained to monitor senior's health and check for any signs of heat-related illnesses. The staff also enhances heat safety by:
Moreover, the community apartments have modern AC and HVAC units for better climate control. The caregivers monitor the indoor temperatures and adjust the cooling units to ensure your safety from the heat.
LakeHouse Cedarburg Assisted Living organizes safe outdoor activities with adequate hot weather protection. For example, outdoor activities during summer occur in the morning and later in the day.
Summer is the best time to enjoy the outdoors and have fun with friends and family. But as a senior, you should follow specific heat safety tips to stay healthy and enjoy this beautiful season safely.
LakeHouse Cedarburg is a pet-friendly community that offers personalized care to meet the needs of all our residents. From meal preparation and housekeeping services to supportive services, we've curated our community to optimize your well-being throughout any season.
Contact us today to schedule a tour.