As we are experiencing the heat of August and continuing the dog days of summer, older adults have to be especially careful of the heat. Sudden changes in temperature and chronic conditions affect the defenses of the elderly. Certain medications can also impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.
Heat stroke is a type of hypothermia where body temperatures rise to 106oF or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. It can cause death or permanent organ damage. Symptoms include an extremely high body temperature, no sweating, rapid and strong pulse, dizziness, nausea, and a throbbing headache.
Heat exhaustion is milder but no less dangerous. It develops after several days of exposure to high temperatures and lack of fluids. Symptoms include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, fainting, fast but weak pulse, and fast, shallow breathing.
5 Ways to Protect Elderly Relatives and Neighbors
- Visit older adults at risk at least twice a day, and watch them for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
- Encourage them to increase their fluid intake by drinking fluids, regardless of their activity level.
- Note: If their doctor generally limits the amount of fluid they drink, ask their doctor how much they should drink while the weather is hot.
- Keep them from engaging in strenuous activities.
- Use a spray bottle or personal fan to promote sweating and evaporation.
- Take them to air-conditioned locations if they have transportation problems. (Options include a shopping mall or a public library)