Hot weather and hot conditions can lead to a variety of uncomfortable and even dangerous situations. As a family caregiver, you should understand that your elderly loved one is at particular risk for such complications and consequences.
There are many reasons for this, including the fact that seniors tend to have lower water content than younger people, may not be able to recognize that they are overheated or thirsty, may be taking medications that make them more susceptible to heat, and may struggle with mobility issues that keep them from getting themselves out of dangerous situations effectively.
It is important that you can identify these potential issues so that you can take the proper steps to help them cope with them properly.
One issue that your loved one might deal with in hot circumstances is heat rash. Though this condition is most common in young children, it can and does occur in people of all ages, and can be a particular risk for senior adults who struggle with mobility problems or personal care limitations.
What Causes Heat Rash?
Heat rash occurs as a result of excessive sweating, the sweat is trapped against the skin and causes irritation.
Heat Rash Symptoms
The result of heat rash is patches of red, blistery bumps. These bumps most frequently occur on areas of the body that are prone to getting hotter than other areas of the body, such as:
- Back of the neck
- Creases of the neck
- Upper chest
- Under the breasts
- Under the arms
- Groin
Complications of Heat Rash
Heat rash is generally not a serious condition but can lead to complications for your parent if not managed well.
The symptoms of heat rash can be very uncomfortable for your elderly loved one and may contribute to them scratching, itching, or rubbing their skin. This can open the skin, potentially allowing germs and bacteria into their body and making your parent vulnerable to infection and illness.
Keeping your parent cool and controlling humidity around them can help to prevent heat rash and help them to heal faster if they do develop the condition.
Contact Care Options for Kids for Home Health Care Services
Starting homecare for your elderly loved one can be one of the best decisions that you can make for your senior throughout the course of your caregiver journey with your aging parent. A homecare services provider can be in the home with your aging loved one on a customized schedule that is right for them.
They will work with you and your parent to design a highly personalized set of services tailored to their individual needs, challenges, and limitations. In addition to helping them to manage these issues, they can also help your senior to pursue a lifestyle that is as active, engaged, and independent as possible as they age in place.
This can include assisting your parent with activities of daily living and personal care, offering companionship and support, and even providing safe and reliable transportation that will help your parent stay safe, healthy, and comfortable, and also seek out a life that is as fulfilling as they can during this chapter of their lives.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services in Florida, contact the caring staff at Care Options for Kids. Call today (888) 592-5855.
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