Summer Diseases Older Adults Should Watch out for

For many people, summer can be the perfect time to visit the beach, spend all day at the beach, or hike in the forest. Often, all the summer fun can be ruined if seniors aren’t in good shape or severely ill due to some reason. Before seniors visit the beach, go for swimming in a nearby pool, or hike with their family members, it is better to learn about the potential summer diseases.

Bug Bites

Different kinds of insects such as spiders, mosquitoes, or ticks can be seen at many places, whether it is your house or when seniors are visiting outside. However, a single bite from these types of insects might lead to different kinds of illnesses or severe diseases. Different mosquitoes can easily transmit viruses ranging from yellow fever to West Nile virus or other types of diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever or Lyme disease.

It is better for seniors to make sure they avoid any type of disease and make sure to avoid going outside when the temperature is high. A Mesa senior care provider can help your elderly loved one live a safe and comfortable life at home.

Food Poisoning

Warm temperatures during the summer can be the time where several kinds of bacteria grow which can contaminate the food and other beverages. Bacteria can practically live on food and feeds on it until it grow in numbers. According to USDA, many food-borne diseases can enhance during the summer and people should be careful about putting food outside the fridge, especially overnight. More number of people cooks outside without having access to all the safety protocols.

Recreational Water Illnesses

Varying types of bacteria are present which can be quickly transmitted through water people use for outdoor or indoor recreational facilities like in lakes, swimming pools, or hot tubs. Giardia, Norovirus, or Crypto can be some of the common diseases which are water-borne diseases occurring during the summer season. Seniors should be extra careful while swimming in a pool or outdoors because water trapped in the ear canal and cause the bacteria to multiply which might lead to an infection.

Poison Ivy and Oak

Hiking with friends, camping in the forest, or working in the garage can be some of the best summer activities. However, these types of activities can also enhance the chance for touching sumac, oak, and poison ivy. Some seniors who are extremely allergic to specific kinds of plants can get red and itchy rashes.

Heart Diseases

Spending time under the sun can be enjoyable until seniors are swimming in a pool or at a beach. However, staying outside for long hours can be harmful for seniors, especially if they are dehydrated. Seniors who are at risk of some heart-related diseases should be wary of the temperature outside and shouldn’t go out when the sun is on its peak.

If your senior loved one is at risk of heart diseases or other issues consider hiring a professional caregiver for elderly care. Mesa families can reach out to a reliable company to hire live-in caregivers.