People Focused Home Care Business Offers FREE Grocery Collection
Radfield Home Care Leicester based in Syston is offering FREE grocery collection for people aged 65 years and above in the local community this June and July. As we move into the summer months, we want to limit the amount of strenuous physical activity that the elderly do as a result of getting groceries during the hottest part of the day. This initiative is an effort to reduce the risk of heat stroke and dehydration which is a common problem among older people in the hot weather and can be fatal if left untreated.
It is estimated that 2,803 people aged 65 years and over died due to the heat in England in 2022. It is found that there is a general reduction in the thirst sensation as you get older, meaning that many people are unaware that they may need to drink more fluids. We would like to familiarise the local community of the symptoms to look out for and what to do if you’re concerned someone may have a hydration issue.
Dehydration symptoms you may see:
Sometimes those experiencing conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s may not be able to remember when they last drank water, or even register that they are thirsty at all. This means that occasionally it’s up to others to help achieve healthy drinking and spot the symptoms of dehydration. A bit of extra due diligence could save someone’s life. Here’s what to look out for if you suspect someone may be dehydrated:
* Dry lips, nose or eyes
* Confused/sluggish behaviour
* Nausea/vomiting
* Rarely using the toilet
* Prolonged weakness
* Becoming light headed/faint when standing
Dehydration symptoms you may not see:
Like many illnesses, most of the symptoms are invisible to third parties. This can make things slightly difficult. However, if you deploy a sensitive, diplomatic approach, you may get someone to open up to what they’re experiencing. Here are some of the dehydration symptoms you may not see:
* Dark urine
* Muscle cramps
* Heart palpitations
* Dry mouth
* Feeling thirsty
* Feeling tired
If left untreated, severe dehydration can be serious and can cause seizures, brain damage and even death.
What you can do:
Radfield Home Care believes that the best way to deal with hot weather is to remain hydrated and stay cool. It is important to limit your direct exposure in the sun which may cause heat strokes and heat exhaustion.
You can remain cool within your home:? move to a cooler place such as a room with air conditioning or somewhere in the shade
* close blinds and curtains on windows that are exposed to direct sunlight during the day
* turn off lights and electrical equipment that are not in use
* remove all unnecessary clothing like a jacket or socks
* apply cool water by spray or sponge to exposed skin, and using cold packs wrapped in a cloth and put under the armpits or on the neck can also help.
* Some clever tactics to get people to rehydrate:
* Get them to eat food that is full of water such as tomatoes, melon, or cucumber
* Make drinking fluids a social thing, offer a cup of tea or coffee
* Offer drinks during meal times
If you are concerned about symptoms, or they are worsening, seek medical advice by contacting NHS 111.
If symptoms haven’t improved after rehydration treatment then it’s time to visit the GP or in the case of a medical emergency call 999 if:
* You’re feeling unusually tired
* You’re confused or disoriented
* Any dizziness when you stand up does not go away
* You have not urinated all day
* Your pulse is weak or rapid
* You have seizures
The above could be signs of severe dehydration that need urgent treatment.
If you would like to find out more about the free grocery collection, please contact Radfield Home Care team by email: Leicester.east@radfieldhomecare.co.uk or call on 0116 418 0520.