Senior Safety

 

Many people often wonder how they can help their elderly family members live safely at home. There are a number of ways to both protect the independence of the elderly person and ensure their safety at the same time. Here are some suggestions for summer safety tips:

1. Stay hydrated! According to Dr. William Greenough of Johns Hopkins Geriatric Center, seniors have a decreased ability to conserve water, to detect their thirst, and are in need of salt and potassium supplements to replace what they lose in sweat.

2. Talk with you doctor! Be sure to check that higher summer temperatures will not affect the efficacy of any medications taken.

3. Know whom to call! Prepare a list of emergency numbers and keep it in an easily accessible area in the event that heat causes or aggravates a reaction.

4. Protect your eyes! Vision loss is all too common amongst the elderly and therefore it is even that much more important to wear proper eye gear in the sun to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays.

5. Know the risks of hyperthermia! It is extremely important to be cautious of abnormally high body temperatures. Heat stroke, for example, is an advanced form of hyperthermia and can be life threatening if not treated with medical attention immediately. Due to the fact that elderly people have more difficulty regulating their temperatures it is vital that they have access to cool places, a spot to lie down, and ice packs in the event that they experiences any of the following symptoms:

  • Body temperature over 104
  • Change in behavior
  • Flushed skin
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headache
  • Rapid pulse and/or heavy breathing
  • Not sweating in the heat
  • Fainting

6. Apply bug spray! Dr. Factora notes that elderly persons are particularly prone to West Nile Virus and Encephalitis and benefit greatly from mosquito repellant.

7. Exercise smart! Make sure to keep track of the amount of time spent outside on outdoor activities. Do not stay out for long periods and be sure to hydrate more than usual. Lastly, avoid the sun at its peak. Exercise in the morning or later in the evening to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and less powerful sunlight.

One of the best solutions Mace has to offer is Mace Alert 911. The product is a cellular-based 911 communications device that allows one-touch, two-way connections with emergency assistance. With Mace Alert 911, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing help is available in any emergency situation. With just the touch of a button, you will be connected to a local “911” Emergency Dispatcher. Among the features are:

  • One Touch Direction Connection to 911
  • No monthly fee
  • Use anywhere in the US
  • One year battery life
  • Batteries included

As compared with other brands such as a Life Alert, Mace Alert 911 outperforms as it works without a cellular contract and spares you any monthly service fee or installation fees. If you are concerned about your elderly relative, Mace Alert 911 is the perfect safety tool both in the summer heat and year round.

Information provided by www.care.com/a/12-summer-safety-tips-for-the-elderly-1404231319


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