Now that summer is upon us it is
important for seniors to remember to take precautions as outdoor temperatures
begin to heat up. A recent study from
the University of Chicago Medical Center reports extremely hot weather can be
dangerous for the elderly and that approximately 40% of heat-related fatalities
in the U.S. are in people over the age of 65.
Another publication from the Alzheimer’s Association explains why seniors 65 and older are more at risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat
exhaustion and heat stroke than younger people.
One of the reasons stated is that as
we age the body does not adjust as well to sudden temperature changes as it did
when we were younger. This can be caused
by heart or blood vessel problems, under-active sweat glands and normal
age-related changes in the skin. Another
factor is that many elderly people suffer from chronic medical conditions such
as heart, lung, or kidney diseases that can affect normal body responses to
heat.
Also prescription drugs including
diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and some heart and high blood pressure
medicines can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature and inhibit
perspiration. Other problems that can
make seniors more susceptible to heat-related stress are being overweight and
drinking alcoholic beverages.
To avoid the dangers of heat-related
illnesses, experts advise seniors to drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages
throughout the day, and to stay away from extremely cold beverages as they can
cause cramps. They also recommend if
possible to remain indoors during the heat of the day and
do not engage in strenuous activities. If
you feel too warm, take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath, dress in
lightweight clothing and get into an air conditioned environment.
Our
post is for information purposes only and not a substitute for seeking medical
advice from your health care provider.
At
MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan, we represent the very
best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to
value, to invest.” We are dedicated to
providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and a
foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with
a felt calling to serve. Please contact
us to schedule a tour.
Sources:alz.org/alzwa/documents/Heat_Stress_in_the_Elderly.pdf
nia.nih.gov/health/publication/hyperthermia
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