The heat can be very stressful on the body, especially for those who are already vulnerable. As a family caregiver for an elderly adult, it is important that you are aware of the potential dangerous and issues associated with high heat situations and that you take the appropriate steps to reduce these risks and help your parent cope when they deal with these problems. One such problem is heat rash. This is an uncomfortable, though not generally serious, condition that occurs because of excessive sweating that leads to irritation on the skin. This irritation results in a red, blistery rash that can itch and sting. Helping your parent cope with this rash can prevent them from scratching or rubbing at the rash, which can lead to it opening and potentially causing an infection.
Use these tips to help your parent cope with heat rash:
- Reduce humidity. The more humid the environment, the more prone to irritation that your parent’s skin will be. Humidity makes the environment seem warmer and leads to more sweating, which causes and worsens heat rash. Help your parent get out of humid environments and keep them in as low humidity as possible, including using their air conditioner as much as needed.
- Dress appropriately. The way that your parent dresses will make a tremendous difference in not only their comfort, but also the health of their skin throughout hot conditions. Encourage them to wear lightweight, lightly colored clothing. Keep in mind that skin-to-skin contact will increase sweating and irritation, so look for clothing that provides a breathable barrier between skin that touches or brushes.
- Keep them cool. Take steps to keep your parent as cool as possible, especially during particularly hot times, such as heat waves. Keep their home cool, bring them to cooler environments if their home is not cool enough, and encourage them to take cool baths or showers to bring their temperature down during the day.
- Absorb moisture. Use pure cornstarch powder to keep skin cool and dry, and help to prevent skin from sticking or rubbing. This not only helps to prevent heat rash from happening, but also reduces pain and itching, and helps the rash to heal if it does develop.
Starting home care for your elderly loved one can be an exceptional way for you to help them live the highest quality of life possible as they age in place. The highly personalized services of an in-home care provider can fill care gaps that might exist in your efforts due to your own limitations or busy schedule. This means that both when you are able to be with your loved one and when you are not, you can feel confident that they are getting all of the care, support, assistance, and encouragement that they need to manage their challenges, limitations, and needs in the way that is right for them. This will not only boost their physical health and safety, but also improve their mental and emotional health and well-being while encouraging them to stay as independent, engaged, and fulfilled as possible. In your role as a family caregiver this will give you greater confidence that they will be in the best hands both when they are with you and when they are not.
For more information about how the caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, call 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality cargivers in La Jolla, CA, and the surrounding communities.
http://www2.erie.gov/seniorservices/index.php?q=heat-stress
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
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