Seniors at Risk During High Temperatures

August 1, 2011

With high temperatures common in and around Cincinnati this summer, senior citizens are more at risk than others of experiences heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. 

According to the Center for Disease Control, elderly people are more prone to heat stress than younger people for several reasons:

•  Elderly people do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in  temperature.
•  Seniors are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal body responses to heat.
•  They are more likely to take prescription medicines that impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or that inhibit perspiration.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

• Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink when the weather is hot.
• Rest.
• Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.
• If possible, seek an air-conditioned environment. If you don't have air conditioning, consider visiting an air-conditioned shopping mall or public library to cool off.
• Wear lightweight clothing.
• If possible, remain indoors in the heat of the day.
• Do not engage in strenuous activities.

What You Can Do to Help Protect Elderly Relatives and Neighbors

• Visit older adults at risk at least twice a day and watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Tell them to avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
• Encourage them to increase their fluid intake by drinking cool, nonalcoholic beverages regardless of their activity level. Warning: If their doctor generally limits the amount of fluid they drink or they are on water pills, they will need to ask their doctor how much they should drink while the weather is hot.
• Take them to air-conditioned locations if they have transportation problems.

Caring Hearts Home Health Care visits seniors in their homes and helps manage heat-related stress by monitoring body temperatures, assisting with bathing and showering, dressing in appropriate clothing, and providing transportation.  Caring Hearts Home Health Care offers many additional services to help the elderly and homebound. If you or a loved one are in need of help, contact Caring Hearts Home Health Care today.