Tips for staying cool and helping out those in need during the hottest months of the year.
Simple actions can go a long way in protecting those vulnerable to heat-related illness and ensuring a comfortable and safe environment during hot weather.
Why helping others in hot weather is essential
Helping others during hot weather is essential for many reasons.
Firstly, extreme heat can pose a significant health risk for older and disabled individuals who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. At Home Instead our team of Care Professionals know to take extra precautions during extreme weather and ensure that they leave their clients comfortable and better able to deal with the heat.
Secondly, simple acts of kindness and support can have a significant positive impact on the mental wellbeing of those we help. We all like to make a difference, even older people who live independently can struggle with extreme weather, you could be a life saver!
Finally, being a community-minded individual encourages others to follow your example, creating a more supportive and caring society for everyone. Here at Home Instead Southport and Formby we want to make a difference in our local community, that’s why we encourage everyone to look out for their neighbor’s and family members. Last week we gave away some refillable water bottles to some older people in our community, lets hope they are staying hydrated!
So, what can Home Instead Southport and Formby do to help? Our Care professionals can run errands for those who may be unable to leave their house in the heat, such as picking up groceries or medication, this can be a huge help. Checking to ensure our clients are staying cool and hydrated is also essential. Simply taking the time to sit and chat with those who may be feeling lonely or isolated during the summer months can make a world of difference. Ultimately, being mindful of those around you and willing to lend a helping hand is the key to creating a safer, happier, and more connected community.
Quick tips for staying cool
As temperatures start to rise during summer months, staying cool becomes crucial, particularly for the older and disabled populations. Here are three quick tips to help you and them to stay fresh during hot weather:
1. Drink plenty of fluids – Staying hydrated is vital during periods of extreme heat. Encourage those around you to drink water throughout the day, and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol.
2. Keep your home cool – Ensure your home is well ventilated, and use fans or air conditioning to keep the temperature down. Avoid using the oven or stove, as this can generate additional heat, and close curtains or blinds to keep the sun out.
3. Dress appropriately – Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable materials like cotton or linen can help keep you comfortable during the summer heat. Also, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat or carrying an umbrella to create shade when going outside.
4. Keep an eye out for pets – Pets can also be affected by hot weather. Make sure pets have access to shade and fresh water, and offer to take them for a walk during cooler times of the day.
5. Be mindful of noise levels – Older or disabled individuals may be more sensitive to noise levels during hot weather. Be respectful of your neighbors and keep noise levels down, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
By keeping an eye on your neighbors and offering assistance when needed, you can help ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable during hot weather. Remember to stay cool and hydrated yourself, and be a good neighbor.
Simple actions like these can go a long way in protecting those vulnerable to heat-related illness and ensuring a comfortable and safe environment during hot weather.
Small gestures go a long way
Small Gestures Can Go a Long Way in Helping Older and Disabled People Beat the Heat
Sometimes, the smallest gestures can have the most significant impacts. Here are a few small actions that we encourage our care professionals to take. If you know somebody that needs some extra attention at the moment, these small gestures can make a big difference in helping them to stay cool during hot weather:
1. Offer a refreshing drink: When visiting an older or disabled person, bring along a cold drink like iced tea or lemonade. Staying hydrated is crucial, and a refreshing beverage can help them feel cooler and more comfortable.
2. Provide a fan: Fans are a great way to circulate air and help cool down a room. If an older or disabled individual doesn’t have a fan, offer to provide one for them.
3. Keep curtains or blinds closed: Direct sunlight can heat up a room quickly. Closing curtains or blinds can help keep a space cooler, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
4. Check in often: Regularly checking in on older or disabled individuals can help ensure they are staying cool and hydrated. A simple phone call or visit can make a big difference.
5. Offer a cool towel: A damp, cool towel can be a refreshing way to beat the heat. Offer to bring one over or show them how to make one themselves.
By taking these small steps, you can help older and disabled individuals stay cool, safe, and comfortable during hot weather. These gestures can also show that you care and are there to support them, which can help build a stronger sense of community and connection.
If you notice that someone is struggling, perhaps you could let them know about Home Instead Southport and Formby. We are here to advise and guide people that may need a little extra help to stay in the home they love, through a range of services from Companionship and assistance round the house right through to 24 hour care, We can provide a solution, even if that is just for a couple of hours each week.
Our e brochure can be downloaded below.
Download our brochure to learn how Home Instead can help
If you notice that someone is struggling, perhaps you could let them know about Home Instead Southport and Formby. We are here to advise and guide people that may need a little extra help to stay in the home they love, through a range of services from Companionship and assistance round the house right through to 24 hour care, We can provide a solution, even if that is just for a couple of hours each week.
We have a team of Care Professionals that can cover Southport and Formby and all surrounding areas including Banks, Crossens, Churchtown, Birkdale, Ainsdale, Scarisbrick, Woodvale and everywhere in between!