Protecting Seniors during Summer
This is a very hot summer!
While some are planning to have an outing, please be mindful of your parents and elders at home. Seniors are at risk of suffering from heatstroke.
According to the Weather Atlas, April, like March, is a hot spring month with average temperatures fluctuating between 24.9°C (76.8°F) and 33.1°C (91.6°F). The average heat index in April is evaluated at a blistering 43.8°C (110.8°F).
Be aware that heat cramps, heavy sweating, headache, fainting, fatigue, dizziness, nausea and heat exhaustion are very likely to be experienced during hot conditions.
Heatstroke is imminent with prolonged activity. It is the most severe form of heat illness when the body overheats and can’t cool down. The body cannot discharge the excessive heat by sweating because of dehydration and/or a humid environment.
Causes of the risk of heatstroke go way up in hot and humid weather, vigorous exercise in hot weather, dehydration, and too much direct exposure to the sun.
Signs Signs of a heatstroke may include warm, flushed skin; faintness; dizziness; weakness; and; a headache. These may progress into an emergency condition if a high fever of 41 degrees Celsius develops; rapid heartbeat; convulsions; delirium; and, unconsciousness.
During hot and humid weather, most healthy people can tolerate heat as long as they stay cool. Here are some preventive safety tips on how to take care of them to survive this summer.
• Know the symptoms and body temperature. Check their regular maintenance medicine.
• Tell them to hydrate by drink lot of water and fruit juices. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and soft drinks.
Many local fruits and vegetables are available this summer. Watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, cucumber and different vegetables for salads are available this summer. If they don’t have diabetes, halo-halo, and coconut juices are the best.
Avoid taking heavy meals and using the oven which generates
• Sun Time Out
Avoid going out in the blazing sun. According to experts, sunbathing is generally safest during summer before 11 a.m. and after 3-4 p.m.
In other words, we have to avoid sunbathing in the middle of the day, when the sun is scorching hot. Let them exercise in the early morning and have then stay in cool places.
• Physical Activity
Schedule heavy-duty activities at the beginning or end of the day, when it’s cooler. Refrain from intense or moderately intense physical activity. If an outdoor activity is needed, provide the proper outfit and bring an umbrella or hat to secure them. Always bring water to hydrate them even when they are not thirsty.
• Stay Cool
Let them stay in an airconditioned room or locations such as shopping malls or grocery stores. If you don’t have air conditioning, keep them in the shade. Keep blinds closed during the day but with the windows slightly open in your home and turn the lights off.
• Clothes
Suggest loose or cotton clothing or a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved clothing when outdoors.
• Bath time
Some elders are too lazy to take a bath. But please remind them to take a shower periodically or use cool and wet towels. This will help them cool down.
If our seniors surpassed COVID-19 by being informed, we can prevent them from suffering a heatstroke as well.
Don’t stress them out. Staying connected with them will make them happy.
Source: Department of Health
