Summer is here, the heat is on and your parents’ health and safety are very important. We wanted to share some helpful tips on how to care for your parents during this sea-sun.

Summer Heat

It can become dangerously hot during the summer, your parents’ air conditioning system should be up to par. Be sure to get it checked regularly and the AC filters are changed. That way the home should be kept cool all summer long. It’s also important your parents stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Having iced tea or lemonade works too, however, your parents should be drinking lots and lots of water. Also, speaking of heat the sun is sure to be shining bright so stock up on some sunscreen for your parents. Make sure they have enough sunscreen and apply it before going outside. They should also wear a hat and sunglasses while enjoying the great outdoors. You want to avoid your parents getting a heat stroke at all cost, have them carry a water bottle as well.

Storm Preparations

Unfortunately, hurricane season falls during the summer months and it’s important your elderly parents are stocked up on supplies. Make sure they have enough water and non-perishable food items such as bread, crackers, peanut butter, nuts, dried fruits, and vegetables. You also want to make sure they have flashlights, batteries, plenty of medication and prescriptions, books, puzzles, and board games in case the electricity goes out. It wouldn’t hurt to look into getting a generator in the event your parents’ home loses power. Get sandbags and place them around the house to prevent water from coming in, you can keep them in a garage or room in the home in the meantime until a storm comes. Have all of your parents’ important documentation and medical forms in a huge plastic Ziploc bag to avoid getting wet. You should also have cash handy for your parents in case they need to buy something right then and there. Place shutters or something similar on your parents’ windows so they don’t break from all the rain and wind. Having a caregiver can assist with all storm preparations such as grocery shopping, and meal preparation and your mind will be at ease knowing there is someone taking care of your parents in really bad weather.

Home Care

At Caring Home Care, we pride ourselves in providing the best personal care assistance for the elderly. When you need some extra help with taking care of your parents, our in-home caregivers are here for you. As Certified Nurse Assistants or trained Home Health Aides, our in-home caregivers are ready to assist with daily living tasks as well as more comprehensive care. Let us help your mom and dad with bathing, toileting, dressing,  transferring and ambulation, meal planning and preparation, including meeting dietary needs and grocery shopping, escorting and to and from doctor appointments, companionship, recreational activities, as well as maintaining a clean and safe environment all summer and for years to come. We want you and your family to have a safe, fun and relaxing summer. We’re here to help and just a phone call away.