Keeping Cool in the Summer Months

As we approach the summer months, many of us will be eager to open our windows and bask in the summer sun. Sunshine not only makes us feel happy, but it also provides a great source of vitamin D to keep us healthy. However, we need to be cautious in the heat as it can have negative effects on our bodies, especially for older individuals. Higher temperatures and humidity can pose health risks, particularly for older individuals who may struggle to adapt to sudden changes in temperature. This can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. With this in mind, here are a few tips on how to enjoy the summer weather while staying safe and cool:

1. Remember to avoid the hottest times of the day (between 11 am and 3 pm). If you need to go outside during midday, make sure you don’t stay out for too long and find shady spots. Our Care Professionals can assist you in setting up a sun umbrella and chair in the garden so you can enjoy some fresh air and a cool breeze without being in direct sunlight.
2. Remember to stay hydrated. Even if you don’t feel very thirsty, it’s important to drink plenty of water or fruit juice to replace the fluids lost through perspiration. Avoid caffeine or alcohol, as they can increase dehydration. Keep some ice lollies in the fridge as a cool treat. If you have a Home Instead Care Professional visiting you, rest assured that we understand the importance of good hydration and will always leave a cool jug of fresh water within easy reach for you to sip throughout the day.
3. Remember to opt for lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored, and breathable clothing, like a white linen shirt. Layering is also a good idea for cooler mornings and evenings. Our Care Professionals can make sure you have the right clothing and can even help with laundry, including ironing tricky fabrics like linen.
4. Cool Down: Take cool showers and baths when possible. Our team is always available to be in the house with you while you shower if you prefer to have someone close by in case of a slip. Alternatively, we can prepare a nice, cooling bath to help lower your temperature at the end of the day, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep. When you are out, use a cotton handkerchief soaked in cold water and place it on the back of your neck and wrists to stay cool.
5. Sleeping – When the weather is, sleeping can be uncomfortable. Run a think cloth, like a muslin, in cold water and lay it on your skin as you sleep. To refresh, simply wave gently it in the air and you’ll find it chills up again (when the material is thin). Leave windows and curtains open if it is safe to do so to make the most of the night breeze.
6. Cover Up – In addition to wearing cooler clothing, its also important to remember to wear a hat when outside. Covering up the top of your head and shading your face will ensure you do not get burnt of feel ill with sunstroke. Remember to apply suncream to any exposed skin to avoid nasty sunburn. Our Care Professionals can help with picking up any seasonal products, such as sunscreen, when they pop out to the shops for you – or take you out! All our team have business car insurance so can take clients out for chores or for fun!
7. Pick The Perfect Spot – Seek out the coolest areas of your house during warmer weather. Our team can help make this area cosy with your favourite armchair or by moving the TV to a different angle and closing the curtains to prevent the sun from heating up the room. Its a good idea to keep blinds and curtains shut during the day and then open to catch the evening breeze.

We hope you have found these tips helpful in ensuring we safely enjoy the beautiful weather. If you’d like to hear more about how Home Instead can support you to live well in your own home, call us on 01635 017000.