As the hot summer days draw near, it’s important for aged care workers and those caring for the elderly to get ready for the challenges that come with rising temperatures.
As we get older, our bodies go through changes that make us more sensitive to heat. This can lead to various health problems, including:
- Heatstroke
- Dehydration
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat cramps
- Hyponatremia (Low sodium levels)
- Sunburn
- Respiratory issues
- Skin rashes
The risk for serious illness or even death from these heat-related health issues is exacerbated further for elderly people who live alone, are taking certain medications, and/or live with chronic medical conditions.
As aged care workers, it’s vital to have essential knowledge around managing hot weather to provide the best care and ensure the safety and wellbeing of older people during the hottest time of year.
Prevention is protection for the elderly in summer
Prevention is protection. By managing the heat before it becomes a concern, we can help protect elderly individuals and lower their risk this summer. Here are some simple ways to prevent heat-related issues for those in your care:
- Creating a safe living environment: Keeping the home at a comfortable temperature is a must. If air conditioning is available, ensure it’s in good working order. If not, consider alternative methods such as strategically placing fans, using curtains or blinds to block sunlight, and promoting airflow by opening windows during cooler parts of the day.
- Keeping cool outdoors: Spending time outdoors can be enjoyable and promote well-being, but when it’s hot outside extra precautions are often required. Aged care workers can create a safe environment by ensuring there’s shade available, scheduling outdoors time for the cooler parts of the day and using sunscreen and hats.
- Dressing for the weather: Don’t overlook the impact of appropriate clothing for staying cool. In hot weather, opt to provide lightweight, loose-fitting garments made from breathable fabrics such as cotton for elderly people where possible.
- Maintaining hydration: One of the most critical aspects of providing care for the elderly during summer is hydration. Aging can reduce the sensation of thirst, making it imperative for aged care workers to be proactive. Encourage regular water intake and offer hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables. Creating a schedule for water consumption can help and take note of signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, dizziness, or dark urine.
- Checking in regularly: Keep checking in with the older individuals in your care during the summer, and encourage family, friends, and neighbours to do the same. The summer period can be isolating for many elderly people, so regular visits and calls can provide much-needed company as well as an opportunity to assess a person’s wellbeing in the heat.
Knowing the signs of heat distress in aged care
Identifying signs of heat distress in older individuals is crucial to ensure their wellbeing, especially during the upcoming hot weather. Here’s a list of signs to look for:
- Excessive sweating: While sweating is a natural response to heat, excessive sweating, especially when coupled with dehydration, can be a sign of heat distress.
- Weakness and fatigue: Noticeable weakness, lethargy, or fatigue that is out of the ordinary for the individual.
- Dizziness or light-headedness: Feeling unsteady or lighthearted can be indicative of heat-related issues, as it may suggest a drop in blood pressure.
- Nausea or vomiting: Persistent nausea or vomiting may be a sign of heat distress, indicating potential dehydration.
- Behaviour changes, confusion or disorientation: Heat can affect cognitive function, leading to confusion or disorientation. Pay attention to changes in mental alertness and mood.
- Rapid pulse or breathing: An unusually fast or strong pulse may be a sign that the body is struggling to regulate its temperature. Increased respiratory rate, especially if breathing becomes rapid and shallow, may be an indication of heat distress.
- Hot, dry skin or redness: If skin feels hot and dry to the touch, or appears unusually red, this could signal dehydration or sunburn and may require treatment.
- Headache: Persistent or severe headaches can be a symptom of heat-related issues and should not be ignored.
- Dark urine: Concentrated or dark urine may suggest dehydration. Adequate fluid intake is crucial to maintain proper hydration.
- Muscle cramps or weakness: Heat can contribute to muscle cramps or weakness, and can be related to an imbalance in electrolytes from excessive sweating.
- Fainting: If an elderly person faints or loses consciousness, it is a severe sign of heat distress and requires immediate medical attention.
The older people in your care are more susceptible to heat-related complications, and early detection is key to preventing severe outcomes. If you notice any of these signs this summer, make sure you take appropriate stop to provide fluids, cool the individual down, and seek medical attention as necessary.
Study Aged Care with AXIS Institute
CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS Course Code: 114864D)
CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a nationally recognised qualification designed to reflect the role of support workers who complete specialised tasks and functions in aged services; either in residential, home or community-based environments. This comprehensive program enables you to empower and encourage seniors and older individuals in the community, to live more productive and satisfying lives associated with positive ageing.
Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on training, you’ll develop expertise and knowledge in areas such as personal care, communication, safety protocols, and cultural awareness.
Completion of the course includes 120 hours of practical placement, ensuring you’re well-prepared for fulfilling careers in aged care where you can positively impact lives.
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