June 12, 2017
Caregiving Tips to Beat the Heat
The hot summer months are upon us, and we have some tips to help you and the loved ones you care for stay safe during the summer:
- Limit sun exposure during the hottest part of the day (10 AM- 2 PM). The sun’s rays are strongest during this time. Be sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours or so .
- Stay hydrated. If you don’t like water, try flavoring it with fruit. Avoid drinks with alcohol or high amounts of caffeine or sugar.
- Dress in cool, comfortable clothing to allow body heat to escape. Wear a billed hat to prevent sun exposure to the face. (If are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, you may want to consider cleaning warm clothes out of the closet and boxing them up until the weather cools down.)
- Keep your living area cool. If air conditioning is not an option, use fans to keep the air circulating. If caring for an older person, especially those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may want to consider staying with a friend or family member during the hottest weeks of summer, especially during the day.
- Know the signs of a heat-related illness. If you experience nausea, dizziness, headache, breathing problems or chest pains, be sure to seek medical help immediately.