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Stay Warm Safely: Essential Advice for Older Adults Using Electric Blankets and Other Heating Aids
Thursday 5th December 2024
As the colder months approach, staying warm and comfortable becomes a top priority, especially for older adults. Many turn to electric blankets, fleece bedding, or hot water bottles to keep the chill at bay. However, it's vital to be aware of the potential risks these heating aids can pose, particularly for those with altered temperature sensitivity, incontinence, or certain health conditions like dementia. Here's what you need to know to stay warm safely.
Electric Blankets: Use with Care
Electric blankets can be a cosy addition to your winter routine, but they require careful use to avoid accidents. Here are key points to consider:
Temperature Sensitivity in Older Adults
As we age, our skin and nerves may become less effective at sensing temperature changes. This means you might not feel if an electric blanket becomes too hot, increasing the risk of burns.
Positioning Matters
While some electric blankets are designed to be placed on top of a duvet, others are meant to go underneath your bedding. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe use.
Avoid Combining with Incontinence Aids and Moisture
Electric blankets should never come into contact with moisture. If you use incontinence aids like Kylie sheets or incontinence wear, it's crucial to avoid combining them with electric blankets. Kylie Care explicitly states that their products are not recommended for use with electric blankets due to safety concerns, especially as liquids and electrical products do not mix.
Avoid if using emollient creams
Emollients are moisturising creams commonly prescribed for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin. While they are effective in soothing and protecting the skin, they can be a hidden fire risk when absorbed into fabrics like bedding, clothing, or bandages. Residue from these creams makes materials more flammable, which is particularly dangerous if your elderly loved one uses an electric blanket. The combination of flammable residue and the heat generated by the blanket increases the risk of fires. Always read the labels on creams to check.
Inspect Regularly
Ensure your electric blanket is in good condition, with no frayed wires, damaged controls, or signs of wear. If in doubt, replace it.
Turn It Off Before Sleeping
If your electric blanket isn't designed for overnight use, turn it off before you go to sleep. This reduces the risk of overheating or accidental burns.
Alternatives to Electric Blankets
If an electric blanket isn't suitable, there are plenty of safer options for staying warm:
• Fleece Bedding: Fleece sheets and duvet covers trap warmth and are soft against the skin.
• Thermal Layers: Warm, fleecy pyjamas or thermal underlayers provide excellent insulation.
• Extra Blankets: Layering regular blankets is a simple, risk-free way to stay cosy.
The Risks of Hot Water Bottles
Hot water bottles are another popular choice, but they come with their own hazards:
• Scalding Risks: If a hot water bottle leaks or bursts, it can cause serious burns. Older bottles may degrade over time, so check for cracks and replace them regularly.
• Memory and Safety: Individuals with dementia may forget to remove a hot water bottle from the bed before getting in, increasing the risk of burns.
Safe Use Tips
• Use a cover for the hot water bottle to reduce direct heat on the skin.
• Check the condition of the bottle regularly and replace it if it shows any signs of wear.
• Fill it with water no hotter than 40°C to avoid overheating.
• Always remove the bottle from the bed before you get in to avoid scalding.
Why This Matters
Many older adults may not realise the potential dangers of these heating aids, particularly when combined with incontinence or health issues like dementia. Caregivers and family members should be vigilant about educating loved ones and ensuring safe practices are followed.
By understanding the risks and choosing appropriate alternatives, you can stay warm, comfortable, and safe during the colder months.
For more tips and advice on staying safe and comfortable, be sure to follow Your Care (South West) LTD on Facebook here, where we regularly share helpful information and updates tailored to older adults and their caregivers.
Remember: If you're unsure about using a heating aid, always consult the manufacturer's guidelines or seek professional advice. Your safety is the top priority!