Caring for Seniors during Hot Weather
Summer is almost here, and the mercury will be nearing triple digits before long. While hot weather and high humidity are merely unpleasant for most people, they pose serious dangers for the elderly. Their bodies are less able to adjust to changes in temperature, and they may be taking medications that change the body's response to heat. The good news is that heat-related illnesses are preventable. This year, follow a few common sense rules to keep seniors in your family and your community safe.
Common hot weather risks include:
Dehydration. Seniors are less sensitive to thirst signals, and may
drink less than they need. Remind them to maintain a steady intake of fluids
when taking part in outdoor activities, even if they do not feel thirsty. If
they are on medications that alter the body's processing of fluids, be sure they
check with their physicians to determine the proper amount of fluid intake.
Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Heatstroke. The most dangerous of the heat-related illnesses is heatstroke, which can be fatal. In heatstroke, the body is unable to cool itself. Symptoms can include high body temperature without sweating, dizziness, and nausea. Emergency medical treatment is required.
Heat exhaustion. Less serious than heatstroke, heat exhaustion is caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate hydration. Symptoms can include heavy sweating, pallor, dizziness, headache, and a quick pulse.
If you suspect either heat exhaustion or heatstroke, call for emergency medical treatment. Home treatment is not sufficient for these conditions.
As a caregiver or professional services provider with elderly clients, you may be the only person to notice symptoms of these conditions. Be aware that fans may not be sufficient to cool a home effectively, particularly during periods of high heat. Most cities operate free cooling centers. Encourage your elderly clients to take advantage of these services if they do not have air conditioning, and be sure to check on them regularly.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control
National Safety Council