How to stay cool in the hot weather
The weather in the UK has hit a all time high with the temperature reaching an astonishing 40 degrees. The weather reports have indicated that the UK was hotter than the Caribbean and the Sahara Desert. Whilst some people bas in the heat, other’s and the most vulnerable can find the rising temperatures uncomfortable and even life threatening.
What we recommend to stay cool in the hot weather
This guide, will provide you and your loved one with tips on keeping cool in this weather:
- Close blinds- Shut out the light to minimise the risk of direct sun exposure in the home.
- Stay hydrated – increase the fluid intake and minimise caffeine as this can dehydrate you further. We recognise that some elderly clients avoid drinking water. However, you can now use Jelly drops to help keep you or your loved one hydrated. Find out what Jelly drops are by clicking here
- Shower/ bath or have a wipe down with a cool sponge. This will help to keep your body temperature down
Stay home – Avoid the mid-day sun between the hours of 12 and 3PM. If you do not need to go out during the day, then avoid doing so.
- Purchase a fan or air conditioning – this is the best way to keep you call at home.
- Urine – Check the colour of your urine. If you notice that the Urine is dark, smelly or you are not urinating as much this is an indication that you are the person you are caring for is dehydrated
The Importance of the Elderly Staying Safe in the Heat
It is so important for the elderly to stay cool as they are unable to produce sweat glands in a similar way as a younger person. This therefore presents a significant risk of an older person overheating. If you think that the person that you are caring for is suffering from heat stroke or stress then contact the emergency services immediately.
- Signs of Heat Stress
- Continuous headache
- Dizziness and confusion
- Loss of appetite or feeling sick
- Excessive sweating, pale, clammy skin
- Fast breathing or cramps in arm
- A high temperature of 38C
- Being very thirsty
Its important to seek medical attention in any of these circumstances.
Need help Caring for the Elderly in the hot weather
We at A Class Care ensure that we are providing a safe Live In Care service that protects the overall health and wellbeing of those we care for. All our Live In Care staff across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk are trained to identify heat exhaustion and support clients to stay safe within their own homes.
If you would like to find out more or you have any questions on keeping your loved one safe, then please contact our friendly support team by clicking below:
You can also call our main office on 01223 864 066
