Keeping the Elderly Hydrated and Safe in the Heat
Contaminated Sausages Pulled from Lidl Shelves Due to Presence of Harmful Bacteria
When summer strikes, older adults face unique challenges to stay hydrated and safe from the heat. Here's what you need to know to help them beat the heat.
Staying Refreshed
With age comes changes in our bodies, such as reduced thirst sensation, decreased kidney function, and impaired thermoregulation. This means deliberate drinking of fluids, rather than relying solely on thirst, is crucial [1].
Strive for a daily fluid intake of around 104 ounces for men and 72 ounces for women; however, individual needs may vary [2]. Drink water consistently throughout the day, such as one cup every hour during heat exposure [3]. Avoid dehydrating beverages like caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks [1][4].
For added hydration, include water-rich fruits and veggies like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers in your diet. Also, consider soups or smoothies as pleasant ways to maintain hydration [3].
Cooling Down
Dress for the weather with light, breathable fabric, and a hat to protect against the sun [1]. Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher for added protection [1].
Stay indoors as much as possible, particularly during the hottest hours of the day. Limit outdoor strenuous activities and seek air-conditioned spaces when available [1].
Taking a cool bath or shower can help decrease body temperatures and provide relief [1]. Rest often to avoid becoming overwhelmed from the heat [1].
Support and Monitoring for the Elderly
Caregivers play a vital role in helping seniors stay hydrated and safe. Regularly remind and assist those with dementia or impaired cognition to drink fluids [5].
Monitor seniors for symptoms such as dizziness, faintness, or confusion, which may indicate dehydration or heat-related illness [5].
Disease and dementia can sometimes impair an individual's ability to communicate discomfort in the heat, making active caregiver support crucial [6].
Heat and Mental Health
The negative effects of heat go beyond the physical. Heat can particularly exacerbate mental health conditions in older adults, making them vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and impaired cognitive functions such as memory, mood, concentration, and reaction time [2].
Stay attentive to help seniors beat the heat this summer. Caring for both physical and mental well-being is essential for maintaining an independent, happy life.
[1] NHS. (2021). How to keep cool in hot weather. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/how-to-keep-cool-in-hot-weather/
[2] Alhassan, S. A., Ighodaro, A. I., Owolabi, S. H., & Okunade, O. D. (2018). The patho-physiology of dehydration and its effect on cognitive function in the elderly. Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering, 16(1).
[3] Alvarez, K. (2021). Water, Water, Everywhere! Staying Hydrated in the Heat. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2020/stay-hydrated-in-the-heat.html
[4] Nutri Strategies (2019). Hydration and Sports Nutrition [Webinar recording]. ABA:ILE Technical Education Platform. Retrieved from https://www.abanet.org/grant/grantactivities/2018/2018SpecialOlympicsRBGrant/ile/index.html
[5] Alzheimer's Society. (2018). Dementia and the heat. Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/have-a-moment/hot-weather-and-overheating
[6] Cho, S. Y., Lee, J. H., Shin, J. K., Kim, H. J., & Kim, S. H. (2019). The Effects of Body Temperature on Decision Making in Older Adults. Toward Alleviating the Sensitivity to High Ambient Temperature. Journal of Cognitive Engineering and Decision Making.
- To support the holistic well-being of older adults during the summer, promote a balanced diet rich in water-rich fruits like watermelon and oranges, as well as soups and smoothies, to ensure proper hydration.
- Mental health conditions in older adults can be exacerbated by heat, potentially leading to heat-related illnesses and impaired cognitive functions. Stay vigilant and attentive to help seniors maintain their mental health in the heat.
- Nutrition plays a vital role in overall health and wellness, and it is essential to consume a balanced diet that promotes hydration, helps with temperature regulation, and supports mental health.
