During summertime, seniors have a particularly high risk of experiencing heat exhaustion because their bodies aren’t as efficient at maintaining an even temperature. Seniors who get too overheated can experience heat strokes that may have serious consequences if left untreated. Learn more about these five common signs of heat stroke in seniors so you can work to prevent them.
Severe Headache & Dizziness
Heat stroke is associated with excessive dehydration, so it tends to cause a strong headache and feelings of confusion or dizziness. At this early stage of heat stroke, it’s important to get your senior loved one to a cool, shaded place and help him or her rehydrate with cool water or a sugar-free sports drink. To prevent dizziness, make sure your loved one remains hydrated and takes a break from the sun during the hottest part of the day.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted 24 hour home care Columbus provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help.
Flushed & Dry Skin
Many seniors think they’re not too hot if they’re not sweating. However, heat stroke often dehydrates the body so severely that a senior may no longer sweat. Skin will be hot to the touch and noticeably dry. As temperature rises, skin may start to look reddened and flushed. Provide plenty of water and cool compresses as soon as your loved one starts showing signs of heat exhaustion.
Rapid Heart & Breathing Rates
As his or her body tries to cool itself, your loved one may experience rapid, shallow breathing and a significantly increased pulse rate. This is a sign the heat is getting bad enough to damage the body. Seniors with weak circulatory systems are particularly prone to this symptom. If your loved one has a heart condition, seek immediate medical attention.
For many seniors in Columbus, OH, home care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we extensively screen all of our caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.
Nausea & Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are some of the most severe signs of heat exhaustion. Encourage your loved one to go to a cool, shady area, remove extra clothing, and cool down with water or ice. Get medical attention to ensure the heat stroke doesn’t cause further damage.
Seizures & Unconsciousness
If this symptom occurs, call 911 immediately and get your loved one to a cool or wet place as quickly as possible. Because fainting and seizures are signs of severe heat stroke, it’s important to prevent them whenever possible. Try to pay attention to your loved one and get him or her help before this sign of a heat stroke occurs.
Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on. For these families, the perfect solution is at-home care. Columbus families rely on our caregivers whenever they need time to rest, work, run errands, and even go on vacation. If you need professional care for your senior loved one, Assisting Hands Home Care is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 614-678-5887.
