Conviva Care Center
We all wait for summer to enjoy the holidays and share with our friends and loved ones, however, this year the high temperatures and extreme heat that has been occurring throughout the country has directly affected South Florida. In fact, it is already recorded that 2024 will be one of the hottest years in this state, according to organizations specialized in the subject such as the National Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Farmer’s Calendar and AccuWeather.
That’s not good news for anyone, especially for seniors. As family practitioners specializing in elder care, we believe it truly takes understanding seniors’ unique health needs to keep them safe and healthy in hot climates. Conviva’s care teams are dedicated to doing everything possible to maintain and improve seniors’ quality of life.
Older adults should take extra care and follow the tips outlined below on how to stay safe during what promises to be a torrid summer.
Hydration, Rest Are Critical
Throughout the year—especially during the hot summer months—it is crucial to stay hydrated. Potential signs of dehydration include thirst; tiredness; dizziness; lightheadedness; urine that is dark and/or yellow; a dry mouth, eyes or lips; and infrequent urination. Overexposure to heat can also cause weakness, confusion, a racing heart and a loss of balance.
Every cell, tissue, and organ in the body needs water to work properly. Drinking eight glasses of water daily is a reasonable goal, but there are other options such as drinking milk, juices and herbal teas. Try to limit the intake of regular soda, energy, sports drinks, or other sweet drinks as they contain added sugar. Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol.
When outdoors in hot weather use common sense. Wear light, loose clothes, take periodic breaks when walking or exercising, use liberal amounts of sunscreen, and try to avoid overexertion. Going to the library, playing board games, and other indoor activities are beneficial. At Conviva we offer multiple activities, games, and dance lessons for seniors to enjoy in air-conditioned comfort. Keep your systems running smoothly with our affordable HVAC maintenance services.
When it’s hot, listen to your body and react accordingly. Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day (between 10 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.). If the temperature is 95 or above, it’s wise to remain indoors. Avoid being outside for more than 20 minutes, and if you need to be outside longer, incorporate a restful 40-minute cool-down period—and be sure to drink lots of water.
Older Population at Risk
Heat-related illnesses are 100% preventable, but the older population is more at risk. The odds of heat-related illnesses or injuries are compounded for people who are obese, have cardiovascular disease, a respiratory illness or diabetes. These conditions decrease the body’s ability to adapt to changes in the environment, and the prevalence of heat stress symptoms increase in proportion to the elevation of the body’s core temperature.
Seniors taking medications are also more prone to heat-related illness. Water pills, diuretics, or other medications for high blood pressure should be taken hours before any sun exposure. Drink fluids throughout the day, whether it’s water or drinks like Propel and Gatorade to replenish electrolytes in your system. Common symptoms include cramps, exhaustion, and heatstroke. With age, the body’s core temperature changes and heat stress causes changes in sweating, blood flow, and cardiovascular function.
With careful planning, seniors can enjoy the summer months while staying as safe and healthy as possible. Consult your doctor with specific questions about your health, medications and staying safe in the heat.
ABOUT CONVIVA
Conviva is part of CenterWell, a leading health care services business focused on creating integrated and differentiated experiences that put our patients at the center of everything we do. The result is high quality health care that is accessible, comprehensive, and, most of all, personalized. As the largest provider of senior-focused primary care, one of the leading providers of home health care, and a leading integrated home delivery, specialty, hospice, and retail pharmacy, CenterWell is focused on whole health and addressing the physical, emotional and social wellness of our patients. CenterWell and Conviva are part of Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM). Learn more about what we offer at CenterWell.com and ConvivaCareCenters.com