Hot weather can be dangerous for anyone, and many seniors are particularly vulnerable to its effects for several reasons. Let’s explore the reasons why hot weather can be so hazardous for seniors and some useful safety tips.

One reason — many seniors have over the years developed cardiovascular disease (a general term for conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels), and are therefore particularly vulnerable to heat related illnesses and death.

Another reason — seniors do not adjust as well as younger people do to sudden changes in temperature, such as moving from an air-conditioned room to a hot outdoor environment or vice versa.

Heat Hazards

Heat syncope. This could occur in the form of dizziness, or as a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a decrease in blood pressure, resulting from activity in the hot weather. If you take a beta blocker for your heart or are unaccustomed to hot weather, you are more likely to feel faint. Rest in a cool place, elevate your legs, and drink water.

Heat cramps. A painful tightening of muscles in your stomach, arms and/or legs. Your body temperature and pulse rate may remain normal, and your skin may feel moist and cool.  Rest in the shade or in a cool indoor room. Drink plenty of fluids, but not any with alcohol or caffeine.

Heat edema. This is a swelling in your ankles and feet that occur when you get overheated. Elevate your legs to help reduce swelling. Check with your physician if swelling persists.

Heat exhaustion. You may feel thirsty, dizzy and weak, with uncoordinated movements and nausea, along with profuse sweating when this occurs. While your body temperature remains normal, you skin might feel cold and clammy. A rapid pulse is possible. Rest in a cool place, drink plenty of fluids. If you don’t feel better soon, seek medical attention. Heat exhaustion can progress to the more dangerous stage of heat stroke.

Heat stroke. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Signs of heat stroke include:

  • Throbbing headache
  • Dizziness and light-headedness
  • Lack of sweating despite the heat
  • Red, hot and dry skin
  • Muscle weakness or cramps
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation or staggering
  • Seizures
  • Unconsciousness

If you suspect someone has heat stroke, call 911 or take them to a hospital. Delaying medical help can be fatal. While waiting for emergency personnel to arrive, move the person to an air-conditioned environment—or at least a cool, shady area—and remove any unnecessary clothing. You can also fan air over the person while wetting his or her skin with water.

Safety Tips for Staying Cool

There are many things you can do to reduce your risk for heat-related illnesses:

Drink plenty of fluids. Hydration is key in the summer months, but stay away from drinks containing caffeine or alcohol.

Eat more light, cold meals. Choose chilled items for lunch, especially when you know you’ll be active in the afternoon. Salads are great options, and you’ll also be feeling healthier than if you downed a hot and heavy meal for lunch.

Limit the use of your oven and stove if your home is not air-conditioned. Keep your shades, blinds, or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. Open your windows at night.

If you don’t have air conditioning, consider staying with a relative or friend who does.

Wear loose, light clothing such as cotton fabrics. Lighter colors absorb less heat.

Take cool but not cold showers to cool down. You can also apply cool, wet wash cloths to your wrists, ankles, armpits, and neck.

Limit your outside activities during the hottest part of the day. Monitor the outside temperature, and stay in a cool place until the temperature decreases. Keep in mind the highest temperature doesn’t always happen during the day.

Wear sunscreen and clothing to protect yourself. Skin cancer can result from too much exposure to the sun, and sunburned skin makes it difficult for you to cool down.

Wear a hat when outdoors. Also, stay in the shade, and move slowly during the day.

Stay informed. Check local weather stations for the current temperature.

Fans. Fans can trick you into thinking the air is cooler than it actually is. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, electric fans should be used only when the temperature is below the high 90s. When the temperature reaches that level, it’s better to take a cool shower or bath, and use an air conditioner.

For more information about handling the heat this year, visit Bethesda’s summer wellness blog. 

Bethesda has a 133-year tradition of providing excellent senior living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. If you are considering independent living, we welcome you to tour one of our exceptional communities, including Bethesda Barclay House – Clayton, Bethesda Gardens – Kirkwood, Bethesda Orchard – Webster Groves, Bethesda Terrace – South County, Village North Retirement Community – Florissant, and The Oaks at Bethesda Villas – Kirkwood/Webster. Discover the level of care only a non-profit staffed by highly-trained nurses, therapists, and aids can offer. 
Health & Wellness
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