Extreme temperatures can be particularly dangerous for the elderly. Freedom Home Care has compiled some useful tips to ensure your parents and loved ones are kept safe in the extreme heat this summer.

1. Hydrate. Make sure they drink plenty of water before, during, and after being outside in the heat. If a senior is on medication, it can become vital that he or she remains hydrated to keep the proper levels of the medicine in the body. Hydrate with water, not sports drink, soda, coffee, or alcohol.
2. Avoid the sun. Find a cool shady place outside for them to sit and relax. If he or she must be in the sun, sun block should be generously used and reapplied. Lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and a hat with a brim should be worn.
3. Be neighborly. In the summer months, check on your parent by calling or visiting daily. Make sure they have emergency numbers close to the phone should something happen.
4. Stay cool, not cold. The air conditioning should be set to a level that is not a shock to the system after coming in from the heat. If it is a drastic difference, have your parent keep a sweater near the door to avoid getting chilled. Also, keep fans or air conditioning from blowing directly on them as they sleep. This can cause muscle cramps, soreness and headaches.
5. Know the signs. If a parent becomes disoriented, experiences muscle cramps, has nausea, or has any other signs of heat exhaustion, contact emergency services immediately while trying to cool them.
If you have an elderly parent or loved one living on their own, be sure to check on them regularly and follow these tips. We here at Freedom Home Care offer many personal care services to ensure the safety and well-being of our clients in their homes. If you have any questions regarding extreme heat, feel free to contact us. We would love to help.