Summer Heat Safety For Seniors
As the weather warms up in Menomonie, so does the need to take extra steps to stay safe—especially for older adults. At The Neighbors of Dunn County, we make summer heat safety for seniors a priority across our campus, from hydration reminders to weather-related outing policies.
Our resident-centered model means every decision we make is focused on comfort, care, and keeping residents safe year-round—including during the hottest days of summer.
Why Older Adults Are More At Risk In Hot Weather
As we age, our bodies have a harder time adjusting to heat and staying cool. That means things like dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke can happen more quickly. Many seniors also take medications that can make it even harder to regulate body temperature.
Because of this, summer heat safety for seniors isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting health and well-being.
Staying Hydrated Throughout the Day
One of the easiest ways to prevent heat-related illness is to stay hydrated. At The Neighbors of Dunn County, we:
- Offer fluids throughout the day, especially during medication passes
- Encourage residents to drink water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty
- Provide hydrating snacks and electrolyte options when needed
If you’re visiting a loved one, bringing a favorite water bottle or low-sugar sports drink can be a helpful way to support their hydration goals too.
Sun Safety Basics We Follow
Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can be strong. We take the following precautions to protect residents’ skin and help them stay cool:
- Applying sunscreen before outdoor activities
- Wearing light, protective clothing and hats
- Encouraging time in shaded areas like our screened-in porches and courtyards
These simple steps are part of our daily routine in the summer and help reduce the risk of sunburn or overheating.
Outing Policy: Watching the “Real-Feel” Temperature
When the “real-feel” temperature (taking into account both heat and humidity) goes over 90°F, we follow our warm weather policy and cancel off-site outings. The Life Enhancement team keeps a close eye on the forecast and communicates any schedule changes to residents and families.
Families are also encouraged to check the forecast before planning an outdoor visit or trip with their loved one. When it’s too hot, our indoor spaces provide a safe, cool place to spend time together.
What We Do During Severe Weather
Summer doesn’t just bring heat—it can also bring storms. Our team is trained to follow a clear severe weather protocol:
- During a weather watch, staff begin preparing the household, closing drapes and getting ready to move residents to safer areas if needed.
- If a warning is issued, residents are asked to move to the inner hallways of their households, which are the safest parts of the building.
- We strongly encourage residents to stay indoors during any severe weather warning and postpone any planned outings.
While residents have the right to make their own decisions, we’ll always recommend the safest option.
What to Watch For: Signs of Heat-Related Illness
It’s important to recognize the early signs of heat-related illness. If a resident—or a visiting family member—starts to feel:
- Dizzy or lightheaded
- Nauseous or confused
- Very hot or sweaty
- Tired and weak
We encourage getting to a cool space right away and drinking fluids. Our staff is trained to respond quickly and can help assess whether additional care is needed.
A Safe Summer at The Neighbors of Dunn County
Everything we do—from our staffing model to our outdoor spaces—is designed to keep residents safe, comfortable, and supported. That’s why we take summer heat safety for seniors seriously.
With 24/7 skilled nursing, daily physician rounds, and on-call support from the local Menomonie hospital, families can feel confident that their loved ones are in good hands, even during a Wisconsin heat wave.
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