More Tips for Keeping Cool

This heat just isn't letting up, is it? Here in Chicagoland, we've had three straight days of temperatures in the 100s - only the third time that's happened since records have been kept!

Those who work with the elderly know that their bodies simply don't cool down as quickly as younger people, and they might not feel as hot when temperatures are dangerously high. They're also less likely to feel thirsty, even on the brink of dehydration.. In addition, there are a number of diseases, including heart disease and diabetes, that can make it more difficult to cope with oppressive heat and humidity.

The following strategies can help keep your residents safe in high temperatures:

• Even if residents are going outdoors for just a brief time, make sure they are wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and sunscreen (at least SPF 15). 
• Keep pests such as ants, bees and flies away from residents and make you sure you have a supply of unexpired EPI pens on hand. 
• Ensure that you have a plan in place for keeping residents hydrated. This can include frequently replenishing bedside water, encouraging frequent consumption of fluids, providing popsicles as treats and making carafes of water, iced tea and lemonade readily available. 
• Make sure that your building isn't too hot. Federal regulations require that nursing facilities that were certified after October 1, 1990 maintain a temperature between 71 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit in resident areas.