Winter

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), older adults lose body heat faster, which is another reason temperature settings during the winter months should be carefully monitored. As for what temperature range to aim for when it’s cooler, the general recommendation for a home with a senior is between 68° and 70°F or a bit higher. However, anything too much higher can make indoor air dry, which could affect comfort. A humidifier can help if this issue is a concern. 

It’s just as important to watch out for rooms that tend to get chilly. The journal Age and Aging reports even 45 minutes of being in a chilly room can negatively impact an older adult. Further help your loved one stay warm during the winter months by: 

• Checking the home’s insulation 
• Making sure windows and doors are properly sealed 
• Keeping extra blankets handy 
• Serving healthy foods to maintain an ideal body weight 
• Encouraging sufficient hydration 

Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elder care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Summer

The potential problem with home temperatures in the summer for seniors is similar to what happens during the winter months, especially if air conditioning settings are too high. One European study suggests colder indoor environments may even increase the risk of falling for older adults. On the flip side, a home that’s too hot and humid in the summer can also impact health, comfort, and wellbeing. Older adults are at greater risk for heat stress and heat stroke if exposed to such indoor conditions when it’s warmer. This is a problem that can be made worse when there are heat-generating activities like cooking or baking going on in the home. 

The Department of Energy suggests setting the thermostat in the summer months to around 78°F. However, some seniors feel more comfortable with an indoor temperature that’s a bit lower, so adjust settings to fit your loved one’s preferences so he or she can maintain an appropriate balance between comfort and safety. Keep in mind body weight and underlying health conditions can also affect reactions to heat and humidity. 

You should also educate your loved one regarding the possible dangers of overheating and dehydration. Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust Dana Point homecare professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she manages an illness and performs the daily tasks of living. 

Spring & Fall

The ideal home temperature for seniors during the spring and fall months can vary based on whether temperatures are staying cooler or warmer as seasons shift. One way to manage temperature fluctuations common in the spring and fall is to consider having a programmable thermostat installed in your loved one’s home. This allows precise adjustments to be made based on personal comfort. This type of thermostat can also make it easier to maintain consistent and safe winter and summer home temperatures. 

If your loved one has difficulty maintaining a healthy, comfortable home environment, hiring a professional caregiver can be the ideal solution. For many seniors in Dana Point, CA, in-home care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Assisting Hands® Dana Point, we extensively screen all of our caregivers, and our strict hiring requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. To learn more about our premier in-home care plans, call us at (949) 426-7300 today.