Sun Safety for Seniors: Common Heat-Related Illnesses and 10 Ways to Avoid Them
Posted by Donna Mae Scheib on June 23, 2017
Sun Safety for Seniors: Common Heat-Related Illnesses and 10 Ways to Avoid Them
The summer season is upon us here in the Northern hemisphere, and with the change of season comes more direct exposure to the sun. Although we all love to enjoy the warm weather, it is important to consider safety in the sun for aging adults, especially during dangerously high temperatures.
Seniors are more at risk to heat-related illnesses because of various factors that include:
- Health problems or medical conditions that make it difficult for the body to adjust to the high temperatures
- Required medications that weaken the body’s ability to regulate temperatures, perspire, or retain water
- Independent seniors may be unable to notice and react to high indoor temperatures if the air conditioning goes out
What are Common Heat-Related Illnesses?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness. It is important to be aware of the warning signs of these illnesses to help anyone suffering from the heat receive appropriate treatment.
Heat Stroke
During a heat stroke, the body loses the ability to control internal temperature and the body’s temperature begins to rise at a fast rate. The body also becomes unable to sweat or cool down. Emergency treatment is required as a heat stroke can cause permanent disablement or death.
Warning Signs of Heat Stroke
- Extremely high internal body temperatures (103°F and higher)
- No signs of sweating
- Red, hot, and dry skin
- Quick and strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Heat Exhaustion
Heat Exhaustion can occur after being exposed to high temperatures and inadequate intake of fluids for several days. Consider replacements of fluids and electrolytes to cool and rehydrate the body and seek proper medical attention.
Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion
- Quick and shallow breathing (inability to take deep breaths)
- Muscle Cramps
- Heavy sweating
- Pale in appearance
- Tiredness and weakness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
- Fast and weak pulse
- Headache
How to Help Avoid Heat-Related Stress and Illness
Consider the following prevention tips and advice to help keep your living space cool and take precautionary measures on dangerously hot days. If you are a neighbor or a loved one, help your senior take these steps and be sure to continuously check on them and help them relocate to an air-conditioned area if necessary.
- Keep up to date on filters in air conditioners. Replace or clean out and vacuum filters once a month. Clean filters help maximize the ability of your cooling system.
- Use room cooling shades to help expel the heat.
- Make use of fans in larger areas of rooms to help push air around.
- If outside, stay in cool shaded areas and refrain from too much physical activity.
- Eat light meals throughout the day and drink fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If you are on any diuretics (water pills) discuss with your doctor how much water you may drink during hot weather. Drinking very cold drinks may cause cramping.
- Stay cool by showering, bathing, or frequently wipe your face and arms with a cool cloth
- Use your air-conditioner! It is easy to want to save money by not cooling down your home, but on extremely hot days it is important to keep your house cool. Call someone to take you to a public location with air conditioning during the day if you do not have access to a working air conditioner.
- Wear lightweight clothing, hats, and sunglasses if going outdoors.
- Make sure to rest frequently throughout the day and avoid a busy schedule.
- To help stay hydrated, drink before you are thirsty.
If you know you are having trouble keeping cool or are experiencing any sign of heat stress, be sure to ask for immediate assistance from a neighbor, a loved one, or medical professional.