6 Summer Safety Tips for Caregivers

1. Make hydration a daily priority

Older adults can sometimes lose their sense of thirst as they age. By the time your loved one feels thirsty, dehydration may have already started. Here are some proactive ways to encourage consistent hydration:

• Offer water regularly—don’t wait for them to ask
• Incorporate water-rich foods such as watermelon or cucumbers into meals
• Keep water visible and within easy reach as a simple reminder

2. Review medications for heat sensitivity

Many common medications affect how the body handles heat, including diuretics, beta blockers, and certain medications for blood pressure, mental health, and bladder control. Talk to your loved one’s doctor or care team about whether any current medications increase heat sensitivity.

3. Set up the home to stay cool

Most heat illness happens at home, often without warning. If you’re helping manage a loved one’s living environment, these adjustments can make a real difference:

• Close blinds and curtains during peak heat hours
• Point a fan toward a bowl of ice to cool a room quickly
• Encourage avoiding the oven or stove during the hottest part of the day

If the home doesn’t have reliable cooling, a cooling center is a genuine safety resource—not just a backup plan. Many communities offer free cooling centers at libraries, community centers, and senior facilities during heat advisories. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or search your city or county’s website to find what’s available near you.

4. Know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Knowing when to call a doctor versus when to call 911 can save your loved one’s life.

Heat exhaustion signs include heavy sweating, cool or clammy skin, nausea, dizziness, and a weak pulse. Move them to a cool place, offer water, and apply cool cloths. Call a doctor if symptoms don’t improve.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs include hot and dry skin, a rapid strong pulse, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Call 911 immediately. Don’t wait.

It’s also a good idea to keep your loved one’s emergency contacts and a current medication list somewhere easy to find, so anyone helping in an urgent situation has what they need.

5. Plan outdoor activity carefully

Outdoor time doesn’t have to stop in the summer, but timing and preparation matter. If your loved one enjoys being outside, help them plan accordingly:

• Encourage outdoor activity during cooler parts of the day, typically early morning or after sunset
• Make sure they’re wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Ensure they have water and access to shade or a cool space nearby

6. Check in regularly, especially if they live alone

Older adults who live alone are among the most vulnerable during heat events because no one is monitoring their condition or environment. A phone call, a visit, or a simple check-in can make a real difference. For families managing care from a distance, a professional care manager can provide regular oversight and act quickly if a concern arises.

When heat becomes a health concern

Summer heat is a serious and present risk for older adults. If your family is navigating this, whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a concern, connecting with a knowledgeable senior care professional can help you build a plan that keeps your loved one safe all season long.