Hot Weather Help For Older Adults In The Minneapolis/st. Paul Area
When the heat is on its time for everyone to take extra precautions to avoid heat related illnesses and even death. Each year approximately 200 die of heat related issues. Now is a critical time for preventing heat related health issues in older adults. Numerous studies have proven that hot weather is more likely to affect older adults, 50 and above, than younger ones.
As we age physical changes take place and older adults loose the ability to cool down whereas younger ones have the ability to cool themselves faster. These physical changes in older adults sometimes do not allow them to even feel the heat when temperatures rise to dangerous levels. Seniors are also less likely to hydrate themselves as they do not feel thirsty at times due to the same reason.
Some seniors do not feel they are thirsty or over heated. This dangerous situation can result in significantly high levels of dehydration as their bodies have lost measurable amounts of water. Major diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and others common with seniors increase the likelihood that they will have problems when the weather is hot and humid. Some medications, along with excessive heat, can make a volatile combination that shouldnt be ignored. Consult the prescribing physician and ask the questions you need answers to.
Heat related health problems in seniors can result when the outside temperature is only in the low 90 degree range. Those caring for older adults should always check the temperature and monitor it and their loved one closely.
Here are some basic guidelines to prevent heat related illnesses.
Move the individual to an air conditioned room and make sure that the thermostat is set cool enough. Also make sure the unit is in good reliable working order. Fans are not enough as all they do is re-circulate hot air.
If there is no air conditioning available, perhaps frequent trips to your local shopping mall or grocery store are in order.
No senior should ever attempt to walk even short distances during severe temperatures.
They should always drink plenty of water or other clear liquid nutritional supplements.
Tip: If urine is light in color, you are properly hydrated. If it is a darker yellow, more hydration is required.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will dehydrate the body.
Frequent cool showers, baths or sponge baths
Always wear light colored clothing that is loose fitting and preferably cotton as it can breathe.
If going outdoors is a must, be sure a hat is always worn with a brim to cover the face and ears.
Best advice during extremely hot weather stay indoors in the comfort of air conditioning.
Ron Hagberg is owner of Visiting Angels in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN. He is a Certified Senior Advisor and Veterans Benefits Counselor whose passion is to help seniors find the ways and means to age in place in their own homes. www.angelcaremn.com
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