Summer can be challenging for older people, especially during periods of hotter weather. At Bluebird Care Calderdale, we work with our clients to help them stay safe and comfortable in their own homes at this time of year. Here are a few tips to help you through periods of warmer weather.
Don’t Forget To Drink: Drinking adequate amounts of water, is probably the single most important piece of advice during warmer weather. As well as your usual cups of tea, coffee or juice, make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Doctors advise against drinking too much caffeinated (e.g. tea and coffee) and alcoholic drinks, as they can actually contribute to dehydration. You can also help stay well hydrated by targeting foods with a high water content, such as fruits, vegetables, and soups.
How Much Should I Drink? The NHS’s “Eatwell” guide, recommends 6-8 glasses of water per day.
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Wear Cool Clothing: In warmer weather, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from natural fibres such as cotton will help you to stay cool. If you are planning to spend time outdoors, light-coloured clothing reflects the sunlight and will help keep you cool. Hats can also help keep the sun off vulnerable areas, such as the neck and scalp. A wide-brimmed hat is ideal. Shorts, sandals (without socks) and short-sleeved shirts help you to stay cool indoors or out of direct sunlight.
Avoid The Sun At Its Strongest: Many of us enjoy a bit of sunbathing, and sunlight brings health benefits, (Vitamin D benefits) but it’s best to avoid extended exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Plan ahead if you’re attending an outdoor event. Check that there will be shade available, or carry precautionary clothing, sun cream etc. When outdoors on a sunny day, try to stay in shady areas or use an umbrella for additional protection. Plan outdoor activities, especially those requiring physical effort, so that they take place during cooler morning or evening hours.
Cool homes: You home should be a reliable place to go if you need to stay cool. If it’ going to be a hot day, keep your home cool by closing curtains, blinds, or shades before the sun has a chance to shine through windows. If you have space to do so, move to the side of the house away from direct sunlight. Opening windows at night to let in cool air and closing them in the daytime to keep out the heat can work. Small electric fans can help to keep rooms comfortable.
Cool yourself down: If you get too warm, using a damp flannel or towel, dipped in cool water, on your neck, forehead, or wrists can help cool down the whole body. Rinsing your hands in cold water can also cool you down. A cool shower is also very effective at cooling you down. NHS advice
Keep in Touch: Maintain regular contact with friends, family, or neighbours during hot weather. Make sure someone is aware of your well-being and can help you if needed.
Eat cool: In hot weather, try to eat light, refreshing meals that are easy to digest. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet, as they are hydrating and packed with essential nutrients. Avoid large cooked meals that can make you feel overheated. Good food hygiene is a priority in hot weather – harmful bacteria can thrive in these conditions, so cook and refrigerate your food with care.
Medicine Awareness: Some medications can affect how your body handles heat. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor or pharmacist to find out if you might be affected and if adjustments are necessary during the summer months.
Exercise Can Be Cool: Exercise is such an important contributor to good health, but it is important to keep it to the cooler hours of the day and to shady (and, if indoors, well-ventilated) areas. If outdoor exercise is preferred, choose shady paths or parks and wooded waterside paths. Evening walks can be heavenly after the heat of the day. Remember, if you exercise, make sure you drink plenty during and after.
Cool Forecast: Keep up to date with weather forecasts, by checking every day – don’t get caught out by rapid temperature switches, in either direction. They are also good for spotting the cooler portions of the day.
Bluebird Puts Your Health First
Did you know, at Bluebird Calderdale, all our clients are now able to benefit from a new health check called “Bluebird Care Assist“? Bluebird Care Assist is based on a universally recognised system, used across the NHS, to provide a standardised approach to monitoring vital signs, improving patient safety, and supporting clinical decision-making. It also ensures consistency in care, helping healthcare professionals respond swiftly to changes in a patient’s condition.
Want To Know More About Home Care?
Bluebird provide Home Care, Night Care, Live-in Care and other forms of care in Halifax, Sowerby Bridge, Brighouse, Elland and other parts of Calderdale. Have a look through this website for a look at their services, plus you can book a free consultation to explore your needs.
