Avoid Heat Stroke & Exhaustion in Elderly Adults

Nearly 400 Americans die from heat each year. Hot weather can be dangerous, and seniors are particularly vulnerable. In fact, a recent University of Chicago Medical Center study found that 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. were among people over the age of 65.

Seniors suffer disproportionately for several reasons. The ability to notice changes in body temperature decreases with age, and some seniors also have underlying health conditions that make them susceptible to heat. Additionally, many medicines that seniors take can contribute to dehydration. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help seniors stay safe during the summer months.

Seven guidelines for staying safe in hot weather:

1. Drink plenty of liquids. Dehydration is the root of many heat-related health problems. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you’re not thirsty. Remember that alcoholic or caffeinated drinks can contribute to dehydration and should be avoided.

2. Wear appropriate clothes. When the temperature rises, wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothes. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect the head and face. Use portable, battery operated and personal fans. Also, place a cool cloth on the neck or head to help decrease internal body temperature.

3. Stay indoors during mid-day hours. During periods of extreme heat, the best time to run errands or be outdoors is before 10am or after 6pm, when the temperature tends to be cooler.

4. Relax and take it easy. Avoid exercise and strenuous activity, particularly outdoors, when it’s hot outside.

5. Watch the heat index. When there is a significant amount of moisture in the air (high humidity), the body’s ability to cool itself is impaired. The heat index factors in humidity and temperature to approximate how the weather actually feels. The current heat index can be found on all popular weather websites and is typically announced on local TV and radio weather reports.

6. Enjoy air conditioned environments. The mall, library and movie theater are all popular options for enjoying an air-conditioned environment. Seniors who do not have convenient access to air-conditioned environments should take a cool bath or shower to help decrease internal body temperature. During periods of extreme or prolonged heat, take advantage of cooling centers around town.

7. Understand the symptoms of heat-related index. Help should be sought immediately if you or a loved one experiences dizziness, nausea, headaches, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting or breathing problems.

MediNurse, St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing care, provides care services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call us at 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.