According to experts, over 90% of seniors prefer aging in place to living in a retirement community. Daily visits from a professional caregiver are key to making this a viable option for many older people who may require help around the house or basic medical care. However, during the summer, there are a number of ways in which you can supplement a home aid’s efforts by helping an older loved one stay cool and comfortable. Here’s what you should know.

Essential Summer Senior Care Tips

1. Remind Them to Hydrate

The single most important thing to remember for people of all ages is to drink plenty of water during the summer, and that’s particularly important for seniors. As they age, people’s bodies become less effective at adapting to changes in temperature. Consequently, seniors are often at higher risk of heat injuries and dehydration.

During the evening, your older relative may forget to keep drinking or may need help going to the bathroom. You can help them by dropping by in the evenings to see if they need help and by making sure they have plenty of cool water to drink.

2. Help Them Dress for the Season

The importance of sunscreen and time spent in the shade are well-understood when it comes to avoiding severe sunburn and skin cancer. However, experts have found that only 15% of older adults regularly take measures to stay cool and protect their skin from the sun. As a result, seniors are often at a heightened risk of heat stroke, sunburn, and related problems.

You can help your loved one protect themselves by helping them shop for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing which covers the legs. Also, make sure they have a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen to hand. Those with mobility issues or a limited range of motion may need help getting dressed or spreading sunscreen on hard-to-reach areas, such as the back of the neck.

3. Inspect the AC

Electric fans and dehumidifiers can substantially increase comfort levels and help older people avoid heat-related illnesses and injuries. However, only a functioning cooling system can maintain indoor temperatures at desired levels for long periods.

Have an HVAC contractor inspect and tune up your loved one’s AC to keep it in optimal condition. If air conditioning isn’t available, affordable, or reliable, make sure your older relative has access to areas with a working cooling system, such as a senior center or the home of another friend or relative.

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There’s also the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits, if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.