25.4 Caring for older adults

Older people are at higher risk in heat, cold, dehydration, and when their medicines are interrupted.

• Medicines for at least 2 weeks and a written list with doses and schedules (do not change doses on your own; consult their doctor or pharmacy)
• Eyeglasses, hearing aids with spare batteries, dentures, a cane or walker
• Check every few hours that they are drinking water and urinating normally; thirst is felt less with age
• Place them in the coolest spot in the home (or the warmest in winter)
• Watch for new confusion, drowsiness, or falls: they can be signs of heat, dehydration, or infection (chapter 7)
• If they depend on electrical equipment or will need transportation to evacuate, register them in your state's emergency assistance registry (chapters 1 and 24)
• Keep them informed and give them tasks they can do: feeling useful protects their spirits