Avoiding Summer Dangers for Seniors

Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the warmth of the sun. However, all that fun can lead to some serious health issues, especially when it comes to the elderly. Extreme summer heat can cause heat-related illness--seniors being the most vulnerable.

One of the main reasons the elderly are susceptible to overheating is that as we age, our body’s ability to regulate temperature through sweat glands and blood circulation decreases. Some of the main heat-related issues include:

Dehydration

Our sense of thirst tends to decrease as we age, leaving seniors at risk for dehydration.

Heat Exhaustion

Some warning signs of heat exhaustion are nausea, headache, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, blurred vision, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, and dizziness. It can occur after several days of exposure to high temperatures as the body begins to lose salt and fluid.

Heat Stroke

When the body cannot cool itself down properly, you are at risk for heatstroke which can be life-threatening. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, disorientation, agitation and confusion, body temp over 104, staggering, flushed or hot, dry skin, rapid heartbeat, and loss of consciousness. It is vital that you seek emergency medical help immediately.

When the local weather is suggesting hot and steamy weather, make some indoor plans. You can find a senior center, library, or museum to stay in the air conditioning. Use your A/C throughout the summer if you have it. If not, cover windows in direct sunlight during the daytime and open them at night for fresh air. Use fans when you can.

The hottest hours of the day are generally between 10am and 3pm. Try to stay out of direct sunlight during those times. If you do go outdoors, find a shaded area and make sure to wear protective sun gear.