Why harmattan is harder at eighty
Older skin is thinner and holds less moisture, and older lungs work harder in dusty air. The cool mornings and hot afternoons also make it easy to forget to drink.
Water first
Our carers carry a jug on every round from December to February, and residents keep a cup of water within reach. Zobo and fruit count too.
Skin care
Shea butter or an unscented cream after the morning wash, lip balm, and soft cotton clothes. We check heels and elbows weekly for cracks.
Air and dust
Windows close on the dustiest afternoons, fans are cleaned weekly, and residents with breathing conditions see the nurse before the season starts.
When to call someone
A cough that will not settle, a fever, new breathlessness or confusion all need a nurse or doctor the same day. Families are always told.
This is general advice, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about someone, speak to their doctor.
Written by the Evermore team. Example details for this demo.