Summer caregiving clothing isn't just short sleeves | Key points for regulating body temperature in the elderly and choosing summer clothing

"I'm wearing short sleeves because it's summer"—this is a common phrase, but it may not always be correct. As people age, their ability to regulate body temperature tends to decline, making them less sensitive to heat but more sensitive to cold. The indoor spaces in care facilities are often air-conditioned and can be surprisingly cold even in summer.

Three-quarter sleeves and long sleeves are sometimes more useful than short sleeves.

Lightweight three-quarter or long-sleeved clothing can protect your arms from the cold of air conditioning, shield your skin from UV rays, and reduce the susceptibility of skin to injury for those with thin skin. When using a wheelchair, your arms may rub against the armrests, so lightweight long sleeves can also help protect your skin.

Tips for choosing summer caregiver clothing

• Material: Comfortable materials include cotton, linen, and other breathable and moisture-absorbing materials.
• Sleeve length: Short sleeves outdoors, and three-quarter or long sleeves indoors where the air conditioning is strong.
• Ease of changing clothes: This is important in the summer because you sweat more and need to change clothes more often.

When choosing summer caregiving clothing, it's important to consider not only the season but also factors such as ease of temperature regulation, the environment in which the person will be spending time, skin condition, and whether or not they use a wheelchair.