Tips for Avoiding Elderly Heat Stroke

From Kingsley Adult Day Care Nurse Manager Lolita Barnes, RN

Hot weather is dangerous, and seniors are particularly prone to its threat.  Elderly heat stroke and heat exhaustion are a real problem.  In fact, a recent University of Chicago Medical Center study found that 40% of heat-related fatalities in the US were among people over 65. There are several reasons for elderly heat vulnerability.  People’s ability to notice changes in their body temperature decreases with age. Many seniors also have underlying health conditions that make them less able to adapt to heat.  Furthermore, many medicines that seniors take can contribute to dehydration.  Fortunately, a few simple precautions are all that’s needed to keep safe. Here are some guidelines for keeping safe in hot weather:

Tip One

Drink Plenty Fluids

Dehydration is the root of many heat related health problems. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you’re not thirsty.  But remember, to avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks, as they can actually contribute to dehydration.

Tip Two

Wear Appropriate Clothes

When it’s hot out, wear light-colored, light weight, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat.

Tip Three

Stay Indoors During Mid-day Hours

During periods of extreme heat, the best time to run errands or be outdoors is before 10 am or after 6pm, when the temperature tends to be cooler.

Tip Four

Take It Easy

Avoid exercise and strenuous activity, particularly outdoors, when it’s very hot out.

Tip Five

Watch the Heat Index

When there’s a lot of moisture in the air (high humidity), the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is impaired. The heat index factors humidity and temperature to approximate how the weather really feels. The current heat index can be found on all popular weather websites, and is also usually announced on local TV and radio weather reports during periods of warm weather.

Tip Six

Seek Air-Conditioned Environments

Seniors whose houses aren’t air-conditioned should consider finding an air-conditioned place to spend time during extreme heat.  The mall, library or movie theater are all popular options. Seniors without convenient access to any air-conditioned place, might consider a cool bath or shower.

Tip Seven

Know the Warning Signs of Heat-related Illness

Dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting and breathing problems are all warning signs that help should be sought immediately.