Top 10 Ways To Help Seniors Beat The Heat

Seniors Are Especially Susceptible To Problems Caused By The Florida Heat

The Tampa Bay Area of Florida starts getting more than a little warm this time of year, and it makes good sense for everyone, including seniors, to be mindful of the heat.  The warmer months bring risks to susecptible elderly populations, especially with the intense sun and heat experienced here on Florida's Gulf Coast.

That's why Visiting Angels, the nation's leading at-home non-medical, assisted living service provider, has created the following tips to help seniors prepare for the sweltering conditions and rigors of living in a Florida summer. 

Keep Household Windows Open.
The elderly tend to lose their sense of body temperature, which could lead to death from heat illnesses.  According to the Center for Disease Control, during 1979 to 1999, over 8,000 heat-related deaths occurred in this country.  As people age, their brain sometimes can't recognize that the body is overheating.  As a result, some seniors keep windows closed or wear sweaters on extremely hot days because they feel cold.  Be sure to open windows throughout the house to circulate fresh air and maintain a safe temperature.

Stay Cool Inside Motor Vehicles.
When traveling in a motor vehicle with seniors, always maintain a suitable temperature during the trip.  Leave windows open if they stay in a vehicle while you run into the store.  Like very young members of the family, seniors need fresh air, as they run a greater risk of overheating in a hot, closed vehicle.  And of course for safety, make sure all passengers use their seat belts. 

Minimize Exposure To The Sun.
Whether it is around the house, in the park or at the beach, seniors need to limit direct exposure to the sun.  Not only do they run a higher risk of skin disease, sunburn or overheating, they may also experience exhaustion, an often dangerous -- and overlooked -- hazard during the summer.  Being overactive or simply sitting outside too long puts the elderly at risk to serious conditions which may threaten their health.  To minimize risks, wear light colored clothing and plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day. 

Drink Plenty Of Fluids.
Staying hydrated is essential for everyone, but the elderly tend to lose fluids faster than any other age group.  Given the threat of overheating and becoming physically strained, it is important that seniors drink a lot of water and other liquids to get the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

Avoid Stressful Activities.
Seniors should be careful how much energy they expend outdoors during the summer months.  It can be difficult for the elderly to give up activities or responsibilities as they get older, so be sure that seniors are not over-extending themselves.  Tasks such as mowing lawns and gardening should be saved for cooler days, or passed on to landscaping companies.

Stay Active, But Cool.
Take part in activities that are enjoyable and appropriate for weather conditions, and emphasize socialization.  Pool exercises are a perfect way for seniors to stay fit, flexible and cool.  Also, many community centers provide activities in air conditioned facilities for the elderly that focus on their interests, and allow trained staff to monitor conditions.

Understand How Sun Exposure Can Effect Certain Medications.
Some prescription medications can have negative side effects if the user has prolonged exposure to the sun or takes part in outdoor physical activities in very hot weather.  Certain medications can impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature or inhibit perspiration under similar conditions.  All of these risks are amplified when combined with alcoholic beverages.  Seniors should always read the warning labels on medication and check with a physician or pharmacist to avoid harmful side effects.

Wear Sunscreen And Bug Repellant.
The season's sun and bugs can be a challenge to summer comfort, so be prepared to prevent their sting.  Keep bug repellants and a high-SPF sunscreen on hand, and apply the treatment regularly in accordance with the label instructions.

Establish a Buddy System.
Create a routine where a family member, a friend or local volunteer, checks on the elderly on a daily basis when the temperatures are hot.  This is especially important for seniors who suffer from Alzheimer's or dementia.  The elderly affected by dementia may be unable to communicate their discomfort or may become confused about their body temperature.  Capable seniors should also be proactive and find someone to check on them and monitor their safety/health on a regular basis.

Know The Warning Signs Of Heat Exhaustion.
Unusual fatigue, dizziness, nausea and headaches may be early signs of heat exhaustion.  Keep an eye on neighbors and friends who may be prone to fatigue or dehydration to ensure their safety.  Ignoring or not knowing the signs may lead to heat stroke and possible death.  If you find that someone is exhibiting the signs, hydrate them, find them a cool place to rest, and consult a physician,  Call 9-1-1 if the problem is serious or if it persists.

Contact Us Today!
The hot Florida sun can be a very serious matter for seniors.  If you have specific questions about how to keep seniors safe and comfortable during the hot weather, please contact us.  Here in the Tampa Bay Area of Florida, let us demostrate that Visiting Angels is "America's Choice In Home Care!"  If you would like to set up a free no-obligation assessment for your loved one, or just want to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable Angels, just give us a call at 813-909-2550, or, 727-841-8440.  If you prefer, please send us an email.  Our email address is:  wecare@visitingangelstampabay.com

Fire Safety For Seniors

Why Seniors Are At Risk And What To Do About It
Eighty-two percent of all fire deaths occur in the home.  People over the age of 65 are one of the groups at highest risk of dying in a fire.  People age 65-75 are twice as likely as the general population, 75-85 are three times as likely, and 85+ are four and one-half times as likely to be killed in a house fire.
 
Why is this?  Decreased mobility, health, sight, and hearing may limit a senior citizen's ability to take quick action necessary to escape during a fire emergency.  Depending on physical limitations, many of the actions an individual can take to protect themselves from the dangers of fire may require help from a caregiver, neighbor, or outside source.

Fire Life-Saving Tips
-Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home
-Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change frequently
-Consider installing a 10-year lithium battery smoke alarm
-Develop and practice a home fire escape plan
-Keep a fire extinguisher handy

Go Room To Room: Kitchen
-The kitchen is a high danger zone for fire, so be cautious when cooking.
-Do not leave food unattended when cooking.
-Don't weat loose clothing while cooking.
-Never use the range or oven to heat the home.
-Double-check the kitchen to be sure everything is turned off before going to bed.
-Double-check the kitchen to be sure everything is turned off before leaving home.
-Don't overload electrical outlets.
-Always keep dish towels away from all appliances.

Go Room To Room: Bedroom

Bedrooms are a common area of fire origin.  Many bedroom fires are caused by misuse or poor maintenance of electrical devices, such as overloading extension cords, using damaged electric blankets, or operating portable space heaters too close to combustibles.  Many other bedroom fires are caused by children who play with matches and lighters, careless smoking among adults, and arson.  Before you tuck yourself into bed for the night, make sure you take the time to prevent possible fires in the bedroom.

Free No-Obligation In-Home Assessment From Visiting Angels®

We can provide you with peace of mind and perform a free in-home safety assessment at your convenience.  The safety and security of seniors is our first concern at Visiting Angels, so contact us today.  We can be reached at 813-909-2550 or 727-841-8440.  If you prefer, you can send us an email at wecare@visitingangelstampabay.com  and one of our friendly and knowledgeable Angels would quickly get back in touch with you.

Getting Your Elder Parents To Choose Home Care

Approaching That Difficult Subject...Your Loved One May Need Home Care.

The Family Plan
How do you help your elderly loved one get past their family customs and cultural beliefs to accept assistance in the home?  How do you tell a loved one that you and your siblings are concerned about them living alone at home?  How do you help them keep their independence without interfering in their life or making decisions for them?

These are issues that will not go away with time.  To the contrary, everyone involved should be very proactive about such difficult topics.  With advance planning, and straight forward discussions, the problem-solving process actually can work well, but it will take some concentrated effort by you, your siblings, and your loved one.

The first thing to know is that many of the conversations you will be having on your loved one's behalf could very well be emotional, and must be handled carefully.  Setting up a family meeting can be a great place to begin to have discussions about the care they should be receiving.  It may seem obvious, but in most cases, remember that they are the one who will be making choices about their life, not you or other family members.  Your loved one should always be a central part of every discussion.  If not, it could be difficult for you to find solutions that are acceptable to your loved one.

Family meetings should be positive and supportive.  Many times, this support alone may be enough to convince the elder family member that they should begin to consider some form of home care before their health deteriorates.  However, even with the most thought out and well planned family meeting, initial resistance is normal.  Remember, you are touching upon a very important topic for them, their independence.

If your loved one shows signs of resistance, and would like to put the family meeting off for awhile, don't push them into having the meeting.  Realize, they may need some time to prepare for such a discussion.  Approach them again in a week or two, and suggest to have another time for the meeting.  If they continue to resist, be a bit more assertive.  Make sure they understand that both you, and other family members, want this meeting because you care about them, and are concerned about their well-being.

Some suggested methods to deal with resistance are:

*  If your loved one's health and/or safety are at issue, say so, and push the discussion forward. 
*  Involve others, such as clergy, physicians, or a geriatric care manager.
*  Use community resources to help everyone ease into the "care at home" process.

Make sure you have focused on what they feel are their issues, not just what you or others think are the concerns.  They will be much more accepting of your concerns and wishes if they tie into their own concerns.  If you suspect that resistance will be an issue, then it is wise to have an initial family meeting, prior to the one held with the loved one.  This will give the family an opportunity to unite in their thoughts, which will help show your loved one that all of you are concerned about similar issues.  The statement "strength in numbers" certainly does apply here.

After having the initial family meeting with your loved one, and everyone has had the opportunity to express their feelings and thoughts, gently suggest that they make an appointment with their physician to have a thorough evaluation.  This professional evaluation can go a long way in helping them decide that they could use some assistance in their home.  Don't nag them about this evaluation.  Simply plant the seed and water it from time to time.  Eventually, most elders realize that they cannot care for themselves as they once could.  Seeing a doctor seems to make this decision easier.

Finally, be direct and speak with them about having a home care agency come out and meet with them.  This will allow your loved one to get a sense of exactly what such an agency can do for them.  Focus this meeting on what a caregiver from an agency will and won't do.  It is important to be specific about the tasks the caregiver will perform and won't perform.  Let them know that they are still in control, and that the home care process can add significantly to everyone's peace of mind.

Talking To Your Loved One

As a recap, when talking to your loved one, keep all discussions with them positive.  Treat them as an equal and don't parent them!  And remember, let your loved ones make their own decisions.  Your job is to help them make those decisions, not to make the decisions for them.

Visiting Angels® Can Help!
Here in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, let us demonstrate that Visiting Angels is "America's Choice In Home Care!"  If you would like to set up a free no-obligation assessment for your loved one, or just want to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable Angels, just give us a call at 813-909-2550, or, 727-841-8440.  If you prefer, you can send us an email at wecare@visitingangelstampabay.com and we'll get right back to you.

Show Your Loved One You Care Today!

Here Are Some Things You Can Do To Prevent The Risk Of Falling

Always Remember...Falls Are Preventable!

Falls are the second leading cause of accidental death in America. Seventy-five percent of these falls occur in the older adult population.

The Temple University Fall Prevention Project Suggests The Following:

1. Seeing obstacles is the first step in preventing a fall.  Keep your glasses clean.  Have your eyes examined at least once a year.

2. Wear well-fitting slippers with non-skid soles.  Avoid night clothing which drags on the ground.  Keep your robe tied.

3. Put commonly used things on shelves which are easy to reach.  If you must reach overhead, keep a sturdy stool handy.

4. Consider adding grab bars to the walls or using a tub seat to assist with bathing.  Non-skid tub mats and a hand held shower can also be useful. 

5. If you feel unsteady without holding on to something, you  may need a cane.  Consult your doctor or health care provider. 

6. Throw rugs pose a tripping hazard.  They should be tacked down or removed.

7. Using hand rails to go up and down stairs is easier and provides greater safety.  Add hand rails to all stairs, if possible.

8. Clutter such as shoes, electrical cords, and magazines is a safety hazard.  Keep pathways clear.

9. Good lighting can reduce the chance of falling.  Consider adding night lights where overhead lights are lacking.  Add bright tape strips to the edge of each stair.  Always keep a charged flashlight near your bed for emergencies.  A night light in the bathroom can also make night trips to the bathroom safer.

Remember, reducing the risk of falls begins at home.  Through education and self examination we can reduce the likelihood of falls.  We can assess your sitution and address the issues which are important to you and your family.

Contact Visiting Angels®  Don't hesitate to contact us to receive further information or arrange for a free no-obligation assessment.  Our friendly and knowledegable staff is available to walk you through any questions or concerns you might have. Call us at either 813-909-2550 or 727-841-8440, or, if you prefer, send an email to wecare@visitingangelstampabay.com and we'll get in contact with you.