Published: June 1, 2009

Hot weather has arrived early this season, draining both human energy and electrical power,  While some are basking in the warmth of the sun, the elderly can suffer from heat-related illnesses in disproportionately high numbers because our ability to sweat and cool our body through evaporation changes with age.

If you are caring for your aging parent or checking on an elderly neighbor, keeping these tips in mind can help make the hot, lazy days of summer safer and more comfortable for everyone.

Pay attention to perspiration levels

When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat. Obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, alcohol use and some prescription drugs create additional risks.

Encourage the elderly to drink plenty of fluids

They may hesitate because of additional trips to the bathroom or greater risk of accident, but the danger of heat exhaustion is more critical, so it’s imperative that they stay well-hydrated.  Water is best, but alcohol, while sometimes refreshing, actually causes greater dehydration.

Do everything possible to cool the environment

When temperatures rise, encourage seniors to stay inside on the lowest floor of the house with blinds closed.  Air conditioning, fans, closing blinds, or even relocating to an air-conditioned senior center for the hot afternoons can help minimize risk of negative side effects. 

Communicate with physicians and/or the pharmacist

Learn what medications may be dangerous when the elderly are exposed to elevated heat or direct sunshine. These include psychotropics (haloperidol or chlorpromazine); medications for Parkinson’s disease, because they can inhibit perspiration; and tranquilizers, such as phenothiazines, butyrophenones and thiozanthenes. Several antibiotics also have sun side effects.

Know the danger signs

Heat stroke occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature.  As the body temperature rises, the sweating mechanism fails, and body temperatures can rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10-15 minutes.

Symptoms include red, hot, dry skin; a temperature of 103 degrees or higher; rapid strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and unconsciousness.

If someone has symptoms of heat stroke, cool the victim with a shower, bath or wet towels while waiting for help. Do not give liquids without medical advice because heat stroke may damage the kidneys.

Heat exhaustion is less severe than heat stroke, and can develop over several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids.

With heat exhaustion, skin may be cool and moist. The pulse rate will be fast and weak; breathing, fast and shallow. There may be heavy sweating, paleness, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or fainting. If heat exhaustion is suspected, have the person drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages; cool off with a shower; dress as light as possible; and rest.

Dress appropriately

Because seniors are more sensitive to sunlight, they are quicker to develop sunburn and are less able to regulate their body temperature, so encourage them to dress in loose fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible.  Light colors and cotton fabrics are best.  Also, sunscreen is critical.

Implement a buddy system

In seasons of extreme weather, it’s important that we check on our elderly family, friends and neighbors consistently, so develop a schedule to make sure no one is overlooked.

If you have any questions about summer safety, or would like more information on how the VNA can help you or a loved one, please contact us at (402) 342-5566, (800) 456-8869 or info@thevnacares.org.

Sources:
http://www.health.state.ri.us/elderheat.php