Although safety awareness spans every season, summer heat presents unique challenges that demand special attention for adults 65 and older. At eternalHealth, we understand that maintaining your health and independence during the hottest months requires preparation, awareness, and the right support system. We’re committed to providing you with the knowledge and resources needed to enjoy summer safely while protecting your wellbeing throughout the season.
The Critical Importance of Heat Safety as We Age
Summer heat poses serious risks for older adults, with heat-related illnesses sending thousands to emergency rooms each year. This statistic might sound alarming, but there’s encouraging news: with proper preparation and awareness, these incidents are largely preventable. Research shows that taking proactive steps to stay cool and hydrated can make all the difference in your summer safety and enjoyment.
Key Summer Safety Benefits with eternalHealth
Your eternalHealth Medicare Advantage plan includes valuable services to support your summer wellness:
Annual Wellness Visit
Schedule your no-cost annual wellness visit with your Primary Care Physician (PCP) and receive a $10 reward on your eternalPlus Benefits Card for over-the-counter items and if eligible, healthy groceries*. These visits are the perfect time to discuss your summer activity plans, review medications that may increase heat sensitivity, and ensure you’re prepared for the warmer months ahead.
Comprehensive Health Monitoring
Take advantage of covered preventive services designed to keep you healthy during summer’s challenges. Regular check-ups help identify conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or kidney problems that can increase your risk of heat-related illness. These routine visits are essential for creating a personalized summer safety plan with your healthcare provider. Best of all? Most preventive services, including cancer screenings, diabetes screenings, and cardiovascular screenings, are at no cost to you! We encourage you to complete both your annual wellness visit and recommended health screenings to stay ahead of potential summer health risks.
Fitness and Wellness Support
Regular physical activity adapted for summer conditions is associated with better heat tolerance and overall health. Use your eternalHealth fitness benefit to access air-conditioned exercise facilities or stream over 28,000 fitness videos from the comfort of your cool home. If you are an eternalHealth Freedom or eternalHealth Valor member, you also have a fitness flex allowance to spend annually on fitness trackers, home fitness equipment, and activities that keep you active safely during hot weather.
Stay Safe and Healthy This Summer
As summer approaches, warmer weather opens up wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities. However, rising temperatures can also pose serious health risks that deserve your attention.
Heat-related illness can develop when you’re exposed to high temperatures for extended periods, especially during heat waves or in high-humidity conditions. Your body may struggle to cool itself effectively, leading to potentially dangerous complications.
Older adults face particular vulnerability to heat stress. Managing chronic health conditions, taking multiple medications, and having a reduced ability to adapt to sudden temperature changes all increase the risk of heat-related health problems.
eternalHealth’s Care Management team is here for you.
If you need assistance finding cooling centers in your area, connecting with specialists who can help manage heat-sensitive conditions, or scheduling important health check-ups before summer peaks, our dedicated Care Management team is ready to help. We’ll navigate these resources so you can focus on staying safe and healthy.
Contact us today:
Call: 1 (800) 680-4568 (TTY 711) and ask to speak with a Care Manager
Email: caremanagement@eternalHealth.com
Critical Warning Signs to Watch For
Don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms: Heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, headache, dizziness, or muscle cramps may indicate your body is struggling with the heat.
Heat Stroke Warning Signs: High body temperature, confusion, rapid pulse, hot and dry skin, or altered mental state require emergency medical care immediately.
Dehydration Indicators: Excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, or dark-colored urine signal the need for immediate fluid replacement and medical evaluation.
Medication-Related Heat Sensitivity: Unusual reactions to heat if you take blood pressure medications, diuretics, antihistamines, or other medications that can affect temperature regulation.
Your Summer Safety Action Plan
Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Aim for at least 8 glasses daily, more on hot days.
Time Your Activities: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler, typically before 10 AM or after 6 PM.
Dress Smart: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and don’t forget sun protection with wide-brimmed hats and SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Keep Your Home Cool: Use air conditioning when possible, close blinds during peak heat hours, and know the location of nearby cooling centers.
Stay Connected: Arrange for daily check-ins with family, friends, or neighbors during heat waves.
Take Action Today
Remember, preparing for summer heat today means safer, more enjoyable months ahead. Our dedicated team stands ready to support you in achieving optimal health and summer wellness.
Contact our member services team to better understand your benefits and learn how to optimize your summer health plan!
1-800-680-4568 (TTY 711)
October 1st-March 31st: 8AM-8PM local time, 7 days a week
April 1st-September 30th: 8AM-8PM local time, Monday-Friday
*The benefit mentioned is part of a special supplemental program for the chronically ill. Qualifying conditions include Cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, chronic and disabling mental health conditions, cancer, and ESRD. Having a listed condition does not guarantee eligibility.
Rewards expire at the end of the plan year and may be subject to applicable restrictions. Rewards are based on current eligibility status. eternalHealth may discontinue this program at any time. Consult with your doctor about the appropriateness of these services based on your risk factors and medical history.
eternalHealth is an HMO plan with a Medicare Contract for HMO, HMO-POS and PPO offerings. Enrollment in eternalHealth depends on contract renewal. To enroll in an eternalHealth plan you must meet certain eligibility requirements and reside in the plan’s CMS-approved service area. Benefits and cost sharing may vary by plan.
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