Hot Weather Safety Tips for Seniors in Asheville, NC

Hot summer weather poses a significant health risk for seniors. Older adults are especially susceptible to conditions ranging from dehydration to heat stroke in hot, sunny weather. At Visiting Angels, we're committed to providing quality care for seniors that will help those in the older population stay safe in these conditions. Learn how you and your loved ones can stay safe and healthy as temperatures climb during the summer season.

Understanding Heat Risks for Seniors

Excessive heat is unsafe for any individual, but seniors are especially high risk. It's more difficult for older adults to regulate their body temperature. These individuals are also more likely to have health conditions or take medications that affect sweat production and temperature control. Sedatives, diuretics, and certain heart and high blood pressure medications can make it more difficult for the body to cool itself.

Older adults are more vulnerable to harmful UV rays from the sun as well. The skin becomes thinner with age, which makes it more susceptible to sunburn. Burns draw the body's fluids up toward the surface of the skin, which can leave the rest of the body dehydrated, further increasing the health risks of being outside in a hot environment.

Staying safe in hot weather takes a combination of preventive measures and prompt responses. It's essential to take a mindful approach to the hazards of the summer months.

Hydration is Key

Staying hydrated is crucial in hot weather. Older adults should get a minimum of six to eight glasses of water each day, but you may need to increase this when you're sweating a lot. Sipping water throughout the day is the best way to stay hydrated. Slices of citrus fruit, cucumber, or watermelon can add flavor for those who don't like plain water. 

You can supplement water intake throughout the day with smart diet choices. Eating juicy fruits, smoothies, yogurt, gelatin, and cold soups supports hydration as well. Little tricks like drinking a full glass of water with every meal or pill can help to keep hydration up.

A sports drink with electrolytes is an acceptable alternative to water, but alcoholic or caffeinated beverages are not. Alcohol and caffeine actually contribute to dehydration, so these beverages just make things worse. Watch for signs of dehydration like dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, dry eyes, confusion, and dark-colored urine.

Dressing Appropriately

Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is best for hot weather. Choose a breathable fabric like linen, cotton, or rayon. Light colors like white, beige, or a pastel hue are best, as these absorb less heat. Avoid black, navy, and other dark colors, as these may become hot to the touch in direct sunlight.

While seniors shouldn't bundle up in the heat, it's important to keep the skin covered as much as possible. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can help protect their face from the sun. Carrying a parasol on a walk will provide mobile shade wherever you go. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above on any exposed skin and reapply every two hours. Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or above, so nothing is forgotten.

Managing Indoor Climate

Older adults should stay inside in an air-conditioned space as much as possible when there's extreme heat outdoors. Air conditioning naturally pulls moisture from the air, but you should still monitor indoor humidity levels for safety, too. Humid conditions make a space feel hotter than it is. Individuals with heart disease or high blood pressure are at a higher risk for health complications in humid, hot spaces.

Set the thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees and keep indoor humidity levels between 40 and 60 percent. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as necessary to maintain this healthy range. You can also keep the space cool and comfortable by closing blinds or curtains and using a fan to create a gentle wind-chill effect on the skin. Make sure that ceiling fans are set to rotate counterclockwise in summer to pull air down so you can enjoy the cooling breeze.

Timing Outdoor Activities Wisely

If you're planning outdoor activities for seniors, consider the time of day carefully. Check the weather forecast and avoid the peak of the day, which is usually in the late afternoon. Early morning and evening hours are a safer time for going outdoors in summer. Choose a space with outdoor umbrellas or shade from trees and awnings so participants aren't exposed to direct sun for long periods.

Always have water available when you're doing things outdoors, and take frequent breaks to rest and rehydrate. Cool wet washcloths can help if an individual starts to overheat. Keep some damp cloths in a zip-top baggie in your cooler so you're prepared. Place the cloths on the neck, wrists, armpits, and ankles for the best effect.

Recognizing Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke so you can take action fast if you or someone you're with is suffering from heat exposure. Warning signs include:

• Red skin.
• Fast or weak pulse.
• Dizziness.
• Headache.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Lethargy or weakness.
• Confusion.
• Elevated body temperature.
• Cold, clammy skin.
• Either excessive sweat or no sweat at all.
• Loss of consciousness.

If you notice several of these signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke in an older adult, you should call 911 immediately. Have the individual sit or lie down in a cool, shady place and encourage them to drink cool fluids like water or a sports drink. Place cool, damp cloths on the body as suggested above.

Stay Safe With Visiting Angels' Support

Seniors and older adults need the proper support and supervision to stay safe in the heat. At Visiting Angels, we're committed to providing attentive, personalized care to every client. We can support seniors and their caregivers throughout the summer with outdoor safety. Contact Visiting Angels to learn more about our services or give us a call/text at 828-665-3944 to determine how we can assist with your situation.