It's summer - be alert for signs of heat stress!

During the summer months heat stress and heat related illnesses will be a major cause of hospitalisation even death in the elderly. If you are caring for a frail older loved one it's important to be alert to the signs and symptoms of heat stress and heat exhaustion.

Heat related illnesses can range from simple heat cramps to heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is a warning sign that your body cannot cool itself. It can quickly develop into heat stroke, a serious medical emergency.

Anyone can suffer from heat stress but the elderly are particularly vulnerable. As we age our bodies are less able to adapt to changes in temperature. Older people are also more likely to suffer from chronic illness or be taking multiple medications making them more vulnerable to heat related conditions.

If measures are not taken early on to rehydrate and cool off the body the progression from heat stress to heat exhaustion and stroke can be rapid.

If you are caring for a loved one at home or in a nursing home pay attention to their fluid intake. Too often in an aged care home fluids are left out of reach of residents in bed, enough time is not taken to ensure a resident finishes their drink or water jugs and cups are left on tables untouched.

It can be very difficult to get someone with dementia to drink enough fluids but it's worth persisting. If you are worried about a family member and think they are at risk of dehydration bring it up with the registered nurse in charge.

Fortunately there are many things you can do to protect your loved one from heat stress and heat related illness. Try the following suggestions:

• Try offering regular sips of water, cordial or juice during the day.
• Using a non - spill drink bottle can be easier for residents confined to bed.
• Bring in a box of iceblocks for a loved one keep them in a fridge close by.
• Place jugs of water or drinks about the home as a prompt to drink.
• Always carry a bottle of water on outings.
• Try giving a loved one jelly or thickened fluids.
• Place a fan by the bed.
• Ensure shades are closed during the day.
• Wear loose fitting clothes, avoid nylon in summer.
• Give a loved one a tepid sponge.

Remember heat stress can happen very quickly. Always seek medical attention immediately if a loved one is showing signs of heat stress.

The government recently released some guidelines to help people reduce their risk of heat related illness called 'Summer safety tips for older Australians'. I have attached several links to some helpful articles on heat exhaustion below that I hope you find helpful.

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•   Summer safety tips for older Australians
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