In the know.

Summertime means fun in the sun, however, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke should cause concern for anyone planning to spend a great deal of time outdoors, especially those sixty-five or older. While anyone can get overheated with too much exposure to heat or humidity, the elderly are far more susceptible to complications.

Why? Older bodies don't release as much sweat from their sweat glands. Therefore, the heat isn't easily released from the blood vessels in the skin.  Additionally, it is important to understand that seniors may not adapt to sudden changes in temperature due to medications or other chronic illness like younger people. Recognizing the signs of trouble can be lifesaving.

To stay safe this summer, seniors and their loved ones should become acquainted with the signs of both heat exhaustion and heat stroke to ensure safety when spending time in the heat.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion:

• faint or dizzy
• excessive sweating
• cool, pale, clammy skin
• nausea or vomiting
• rapid, weak pulse
• muscle cramps
• intense thirst
• fast shallow breathing

What to do: Move the person out of direct heat, laying them down with legs or feet raised slightly. Provide them with cool water or a sports drink containing electrolytes. Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks. Remove clothing that is tight or extra heavy. Follow up with your healthcare provider.

If you fail to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and get them cooled down, their condition can quickly turn to heat stroke, a far more serious condition, within minutes.

Signs of Heat Stroke

• throbbing headache
• no sweating
• body temperature above 103 degrees
• red, hot, dry skin
• nausea or vomiting
• rapid, strong pulse
• confusion or difficulty speaking
• hallucination, odd behavior
• may lose consciousness
• seizure

What to do: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.  

‍According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), seniors can protect themselves from the damaging effects of the summer heatby doing the following:

• stay in the shade or air conditioning when possible
• stay hydrated drinking between 6-8 glasses of water each day- do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water!
• wear sunscreen
• wear light, breathable clothing
• take a cool bath or shower
• limit activity that may be strenuous during extreme heat
• monitor the weather and temperature trends to plan outdoor activities