Keeping Elderly Loved Ones Safe During Summer Heat:

What You Can Do

As temperatures rise, it’s important to remember that older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

At Cobble Hill Health Center, we take extra precautions to ensure our residents stay safe, cool, and comfortable—but these are steps everyone can take to protect the seniors in their lives.

 

☀ Why Heat Affects Older Adults More

  • Aging bodies have a harder time regulating temperature.
  • Seniors may not feel thirsty even when dehydrated.
  • Some medications can increase sensitivity to heat.
  • Chronic conditions (like heart disease) can worsen in hot weather.

 

✅ What You Can Do

 

1. Keep them cool

  • Ensure they’re in air-conditioned environments during the hottest parts of the day.
  • Use fans, cool cloths, and breathable clothing.
  • Keep curtains or blinds closed during peak sun hours.

 

2. Keep them hydrated

  • Offer water regularly, even if they don’t ask for it.
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.
  • Include hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and popsicles.

 

3. Plan around the heat

  • Schedule errands, appointments, and outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours.
  • Encourage rest during midday when the sun is strongest.

 

4. Check in often

  • Visit or call elderly loved ones daily during heat waves.
  • Ask how they’re feeling and check for signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse).

 

5. Know the signs of heat-related illness

  • Heat exhaustion: headache, nausea, heavy sweating, weakness.
  • Heat stroke: confusion, rapid heart rate, high body temperature—this is a medical emergency; call 911.

 

How We Help at Cobble Hill Health Center

 

At Cobble Hill, we monitor temperatures closely and make sure residents:

  • Stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Spend time in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas.
  • Enjoy summer safely with supervised activities and staff support.

 

Need Help at Home?

 

Not every family has the ability to check in daily or provide hands-on care—and that’s okay. Our homecare agency, Your Choice at Home, is here to help.

We can send trained, compassionate aides to support your loved one with:

  • Staying cool and hydrated

  • Running errands during safe hours

  • Preparing meals and hydrating snacks

  • Monitoring for signs of heat-related illness

  • Providing companionship and peace of mind

 

Whether you need short-term help during a heat wave or ongoing support, we’re just a phone call away.

Cobble Hill Health Center: (718) 855-6789
Your Choice at Home: (718) 855-7080

Together, we can help your loved one stay safe, comfortable, and cared for—no matter the weather.