Rising Temps = Rising Risk for Older Adults

The heat is cranking up!  With temperature this week expected to hit the high 90’s, it is a good time to learn how to avoid the health risks which older adults face due to the heat.

As we age, our bodies lose the ability to adapt to heat. Some medical conditions are made worse by heat and some medications impact the body’s response to heat.

Heat-related problems including heat stroke, cramps, fatigue, fainting and heat exhaustion are collectively known as “hyperthermia”.

Simply put: Hyperthermia takes place when the body overheats.

Health related issues such as the ones listed below put individuals at higher risk for hyperthermia:

• Health conditions including heat failure, pulmonary disease and diabetes
• Impaired mobility
• Cognitive impairment and/or dementia
• Dehydration
• Certain medications which cause dehydration or impact the body’s response to heat
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages
• Being overweight

 

As we age, our thirst response decreases. For this reason, older adults may need encouragement and reminders to maintain adequate levels of hydration.

Ways to prevent hyperthermia include:

• Having adequate fluid intake
• Use of fans or air conditioners
• Being aware of exertion and moderating exercise
• Wearing light weight clothing
• Having cool cloths and ice at hand

One of the most serious forms of hyperthermia is heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when the body is overwhelmed by heat and unable to control its temperature.

In heat stroke, an individual’s temperature rises to at least 104 degrees.

Signs of heat stroke include strong rapid pulse, lack of sweating, dry flushed skin, faintness, staggered gait and/or a change in mental status shown by confusion, disorientation, aggressiveness or even coma.

If you see any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.

If you see signs that someone is someone is beginning to suffer from a heat-related illness,  take these steps:

• Move them into an air conditioned or other cool place
• Urge them to lie down and rest
• Remove or loosen tight-fitting or heavy clothing
• Encourage them to drink water or juices if they are able to drink without choking, but avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Apply cold water, ice packs or cold wet cloths to the skin
• Get medical assistance as soon as possible

 

 

Have a happy and safe summer!