Summer is finally here, along with its abundant nature, beautiful colors and numerous outdoor activities. However, this time of year is also known for its heat waves! As the health of the elderly during heat waves is particularly fragile, Bonjour Résidences provides heat wave safety tips, common symptoms of dehydration among the elderly and what to do in the event of heat stroke.
1. Track the Weather Forecast
Preparing for the onset of heat waves will allow you to be better equipped and take simple steps to protect your health. So, remember to regularly check for the following indicators:
Environment Canada and Heat Warnings
Weather alerts are issued by Environment Canada when the forecast temperature exceeds 30 °C with a humidity indicator of 40, or reaches 40 °C or more, for at least one hour. This is considered to be extreme heat.
If these temperatures persist for more than 3 days, it is considered to be a heat wave. This should be taken note of, especially for the elderly!
The Humidex
Extreme heat can also be accompanied by high levels of humidity. Humidity generally increases body heat and therefore increases the risk of heat stroke or health complications for seniors.
To better assess this humidity level, the humidex index indicates how hot the weather feels to the average person. When it is over 30, humidity can become uncomfortable. The index is especially one to watch for the elderly when it exceeds 40.
2. Keep Your Space Cool
To preserve your health and prevent dehydration during a heat wave, it is important to maintain a cool temperature in your living space. Therefore, plan:
- To have air conditioning set at a suitable room temperature if you have it (make sure it is functional);
- Fans to circulate the air;
- Close shutters, blinds or curtains during the day to keep your space cool;
- Open your curtains and windows at night to let in fresh air in ;
- Avoid cooking hot meals and using the oven or hotplates on hot days.
If your living space is too warm, consider going to cooler places for at least two to three hours a day. If possible, try getting out of the city where temperatures are usually warmer.
3. Hydrate Regularly and Eat Fresh Food
In hot weather, hydration is the best prevention. Seniors should pay close attention to this, as they tend to feel less thirsty and are therefore at more risk of becoming dehydrated.
The most important step in avoiding dehydration is to drink regularly and in sufficient quantities. Above all, don't wait until you're thirsty!
To prevent dehydration among the elderly, consider:
- Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water per day ;
- Keeping glasses of fresh water close by to remind you to drink water ;
- Avoiding alcoholic beverages, tea and coffee as these tend to dehydrate your body ;
- Eating fruit and vegetables that contain water ;
- Eating enough, even if you don’t feel hungry.
4. Regularly Freshen Up and Avoid Exposure
To maintain a healthy body temperature, it is recommended to take baths or showers with cool water during heat waves. You can also apply wet and cool towels to the face and parts of the body to stay refreshed.
Avoid all unnecessary movements and get plenty of rest. This will conserve your energy and avoid raising your body temperature.
If possible, it is recommended to stay home or in a cool space, rather than going outside. However, if you are exposed to the sun or heat, consider:
- Wearing loose, light clothing in pale colors;
- Wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen ;
- Staying in the shade as much as possible ;
- Regularly hydrating.
5. Contact Your Loved Ones
Isolation is a major risk factor for the elderly during heat waves.
When preparing for a heat wave, ask your loved ones to contact you regularly to check in on you. If there is a problem or concern, they can directly call emergency services.
Also, remember to take down the phone numbers of people to contact in the event of a problem.
What Are the Symptoms to Look Out For?
To check on your health during a heat wave, pay special attention to symptoms of dehydration or heat-related complications such as:
- Cramps;
- Headache ;
- Fatigue;
- Dizziness or fainting;
- Swelling of the hands, feet and ankles;
- Nausea;
- Rapid heartbeat or breathing;
- Extreme thirst;
- Dark urine.
Look Out for Heat Stroke
Finally, it is important to keep an eye out for heat stroke symptoms. These are include:
- Dizziness;
- Particularly high body temperature;
- Red skin ;
- Confusion ;
- Absence of perspiration.
Heat stroke or sunstroke is considered a medical emergency. It is important to act quickly if you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms. In case of heat stroke, contact a healthcare practitioner immediately or call 911.
While waiting for help, move the person to a cool space, apply water to the hottest parts of the body, and ventilate the body as much as possible.
Seniors' Residences: A Safe Space During Extreme Heat
Do you want to live in a space that is suitable for peacefully withstanding periods of extreme heat? Seniors' residences offer safe supervision and are equipped to prevent dehydration in the elderly.
Senior citizens’ residences guarantee vigilant supervision of the elderly and have professional teams to ensure their well-being in the event of hot weather. Equipped with air conditioning units in all rooms and units, the residences benefit from a stable and moderate room temperature at all times.
Finally, the residences prevent social isolation which can be fatal during heatwaves. All staff are trained in preventive measures to preserve the health of seniors during a heatwave. Activities are adapted to the hot weather to gently punctuate seniors’ days.
Would you like to find a residence that is adapted to your needs or those of your close elders? The Bonjour Résidences team will be happy to assist you with finding the right residence.
Contact us at 1-844-918-1020 to let us know about your needs or to visit the residence of your choice!