26 Jul Heat and Hydration

Over the last couple of weeks, we have seen huge temperature increases. This means that both staff and residents have been struggling with the heat in our homes.
For older people, the heat can be extremely dangerous. It is estimated that there are around 600 deaths each year as a result of direct and indirect exposure to excessive heat, especially for adults 65 and over.
The reasons for this are:

• As we get older our bodies conserve less fluids
• It becomes harder to recognise when we are thirsty
• Medications such as ones for blood pressure are a diuretic so this increases the risk of dehydration
• Illness such as diabetes puts pressure on the kidneys and makes them work harder to eliminate excess blood sugar
• Dementia can also make it difficult for people to express their need for more fluids

In our homes, we are very aware of this and make sure our residents and staff have plenty of fluids throughout the day. Ice cream and ice lollies are a great way of getting fluids into residents who would normally not drink a lot. Knowing this we regularly give out ice creams, lollies, and bottled water to everyone.
Who doesn’t love ice cream?