Now that summer is near it is
important for seniors,
and those that care for them, to remember to take precautions as outdoor
temperatures begin to heat up. Older
people can have a tough time dealing with heat and humidity, and even temperatures
less than 100 degrees can cause a heat-related illness. Each year, most people
who die from hyperthermia (a body temperature greatly above normal) are over 50
years old, and health problems can put you at greater risk.
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 caffeinated drinks. 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.
MorningStar at Bear Creek
represents the very best
in senior living with our distinct mission statement
of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home
for residents by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all
seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us learn
more about our exceptional assisted
living for dementia patients.
Source: nia.nih.gov/health/publication/hyperthermia
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