Summer is here, and with it, potentially high temperatures that can cause serious problems for sensitive populations like hospice patients.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for our area June 25-27.
If you are a hospice patient or caregiver of a hospice patient (or anyone sensitive to heat), here are some hot-weather reminders, tips, and warning signs to keep in mind this weekend and throughout the summer:
- Older adults may not exhibit obvious signs of dehydration; pay extra attention to your loved one’s fluid intake and be proactive about offering drinks
- Avoid sugary and alcoholic drinks
- If your loved one does not want a drink, offer popsicles or ice chips
- Stay inside if it is cooler (especially if there is air conditioning)
- Avoid heavy meals
- Make sure fans are not pulling in hot air from outdoors or simply circulating warm air; try putting ice water in front of the fan to move cooler air
Symptoms of heat-related illness, especially in older adults, include confusion, slurred speech, or unconsciousness and should be addressed immediately. Learn more about the warning signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do about them.
If you or your loved one is a Hospice of the Northwest patient and an urgent situation arises or you have concerns, you can call us at 360-814-5550 to speak to the registered nurse on-call.