VNA HealthCare Provides Essential Tips to Ensure Senior Summer Safety

July 6, 2012 - PRLog -- The summer heat can pose a danger to everyone, especially to seniors who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related injuries.  As people age, their body processes changes in ways that make them especially susceptible to heat.  For example, the elderly may experience a decreased sense of thirst or be desensitized to the heat. They may also find that they’re not perspiring as much as they normally did when they were younger.  Certain medical conditions or medications can also contribute to someone’s difficulty to dealing with the heat, too. It’s a potentially dangerous situation…any of these factors can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.  

VNA HealthCare, a home health care and hospice agency serving more than 60 towns in Greater Hartford and Greater Waterbury, urges seniors to heed the following heat precautions for a healthy and safe summer:  
Drink Plentifully
Thirst isn’t necessarily the primary symptom of dehydration – especially for seniors whose sense of thirst has decreased with age. Drink at regular intervals, even if you are not thirsty, but watch what you consume as both caffeinated and alcoholic beverages dehydrate the body by increasing urination.  

Be Fashion-Conscious

Many seniors are not sensitive to heat and consequently do not dress appropriately for the weather. Loose-fitting, light-colored cotton is breathable and will keep you cool and comfortable.  

Prepare for the Great Outdoors

A wide-brimmed hat, water bottle and sunscreen (the American Cancer Society recommends SPF 30 or greater) are staples for every outdoor adventure. If you must be active outdoors, pace yourself and take regular breaks. Be especially cautious during the mid-day hours when the sun is at its strongest.  

Stay Cool At Home

If an elderly loved one doesn’t have a fan or air conditioning, try to create cross ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the home. Keep the indoor temperature down by keeping shades or curtains drawn during the hottest hours of the day.  

Seek Assistance

Reducing exposure to excessive heat needs to become a priority during extreme heat warnings. Many towns establish cooling centers for the public to escape the heat. Visit an air-conditioned shopping mall, restaurant or library. If they are having difficulties leaving their home, they need to call family members or a close friend for assistance, or a caregiver from a reputable agency that specializes in in-home senior care and who is trained in senior safety. They can provide care on an hourly or live-in basis, depending on the senior’s needs.

About VNA HealthCare

Founded in 1901, VNA HealthCare provides home health care to more than 60 towns in Central Connecticut and Greater Waterbury. The agency provides care ranging from skilled nursing, hospice, rehabilitation and speech therapy to advanced cardiac nursing, Lifeline and personal care. VNA HealthCare is a Hartford HealthCare partner and is a Caring Partner with Saint Mary’s Hospital. VNA HealthCare employs more than 800 employees and cares for more than 17,000 patients annually.