Independent Senior Living Ideas to Beat the Heat
It’s a Hot One this summer in San Antonio, TX
As the summer begins, the Texas heat is almost unbearable, especially for independent living seniors. During the summer months, heat related illness becomes a threat—heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, and others. Comfort Keepers® provides an interactive, safe independent senior living experience for seniors so summers are enjoyable without risk of heat-related illness. Knowing the signs and the basics of summer safety for seniors is very important. 
As the summers get longer and hotter as the years go on, it becomes harder for seniors to stay active, especially in the south. A study done by the American Geriatric Society’s Foundation for Health in Aging, showed that about 200 Americans die of health problems caused by high heat and humidity every year—the majority being age 50 and older.
Staying Cool
There are many ways to beat the heat this summer for independent senior living seniors, even if the house doesn’t have air conditioning. Keep household windows open to let air in, especially at night when the air is cool. If windows on the opposite side of the room or household are open, this creates a sort of a “wind tunnel,” which can generate a nice breeze inside the house. If the windows are in direct sunlight for part of the day, cover them with blinds or a sheet so the breeze can still make its way through, but the sun is shaded.
If the home does not have air conditioning, make sure there is a fan to produce air circulation throughout the house. Your loved one can cool off by dampening their clothes with water and sitting by the fan. Also, seniors can go to local businesses or shopping malls that have air conditioning. Many will welcome guests in with open arms to get out of the heat and sun!
Another tip is to suggest that your loved one take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath to avoid heat-related illness such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. This will keep them cool for an extended amount of time.
During times of extreme heat, our Comfort Keepers—independent senior living caregivers—are constantly checking to make sure your loved ones are not suffering from heat-related illnesses or dehydration.
For more stay-cool tips and the best ways to beat the Texas heat, visit yalemedicalgroup.org.
