I am a caregiver for the state My client is advanced stage ALS With FOSMN it's so hot in her house as soon as I start working I'm am literally drenched in sweat .I just adore her and I need some ideas of how I can deal with it. I live in the snow area so it's quite cold and I go outside in my tank top and sandals to cool off and I have a spray bottle with water that I keep chilled in the fridge in the cold snow but as soon as I return to the house I am immediately sweating again .I worry about becoming ill and I cannot as her immune system is extremely compromised
I used to deal with this daily with my mom, she always wanted it too warm for Dad. After some time (several months), I did finally help her understand it effected dad and his health conditions. So she became okay with using a blanket regularly, and we were able to adjust the heat down so dad was more comfortable.
My husband's aid was doing a shift at another patient's home before coming to ours. She was nauseous, lightheaded and had said she had to leave. When we asked if she was sick, she said the temperature in the other home was so high it made her physically sick. It turned out to be heat exhaustion.
If that isn't possible, there are neck wraps that you can put into the freezer (not wet) and it will remain cool for a couple of hours while you wear. They look like a designer scarf, bandana and gaitor.
I live with a partner always cold who NEEDS heat and I NEED cool. It is very difficult. If there is a room you can get closed off so it remains cool and you can get into it often as you are able for a few minutes it may help a bit. A washclothe in ice water to wring and put at the back of your neck. Even an ice bag at the neck.
No magic wands for this one, and I am so sorry.
In the end, you are the only one that can change so you'll need to make a decision. I get it -- my MIL always had the house above 80ºF, in MN. I dreaded going there.
If so there is not much you can do. You have a couple options.
Get a personal fan, they are worn around the neck.
Get one of the neck wraps that has a heat wicking property.
If you are employed by an agency tell your supervisor that you can no longer work for this client and can another be assigned to you.