Caregiving for an older adult can be intense, especially during the high heat of the next few days. Heat sensitivity increases with age, so keeping yourself and your loved one cool is of the utmost importance to both the mental and physical health of the care recipient.
High temperatures amid substantial humidity in Rochester hit 91 on Tuesday, June 30, 93 on Wednesday, July 1, and 91 on Thursday, July 2, according to the National Weather Service website. Morning lows have been in the low 70s, making it difficult for heat to escape houses and apartments lacking air conditioning.
Planning ahead is the key to creating comfort. Talk with your care recipient and create a plan for the days ahead, perhaps asking these four questions the Center for Disease Control offers to those caring for another during dangerous weather:
Signs of heat stroke can be difficult to detect in those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association, in a recent press release said to look for increased fatigue, dry mouth and headache.
“Their mental status can change from it being so hot and blood pressure dropping; each thing plays a part, so you probably want to assess their mental status once you get them into a cooler environment,” said Lacresha Green, registered nurse and clinical coordinator at St. Ann’s Community senior living and care facility in Rochester.
Wearing loose and light clothing, taking cool showers, drawing blinds, and refraining from strenuous activity are practical ways to combat the heat.
And most importantly, Green said: “always push fluids. No matter what.”
While the temperature may be scary, there are many ways to stay cool in a fun and relaxing way.
St. Ann’s offers their community ice cream socials, bingo, and karaoke, all activities family and friends can join in on during a visit. Although you might not be a St. Ann’s resident, opting for indoor entertainment with a refreshing lemonade can help us all ease the wait for both safer weather and better conditions for outdoor fun and relaxation.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Caring for a loved one during heat wave? Tips to keep them safe
Reporting by By Katie Mae Chalone, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Katie Mae Chalone, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle | USA TODAY Network
