Publications
Partners
But too much heat and sunshine can be bad for you, especially as you get older. A recent University of Chicago Medical Centre study found that 40% of heat-related fatalities were among elderly people.
“Older people can’t adjust as well to temperature changes, and their ability to notice those changes diminishes,” says Ruth Johnson, who has more than 12 years’ experience as a caregiver, in a recent Times News article. “The process of perspiration, which is our body’s natural cooling system, declines as we age, as does our sense of thirst. Also, seniors may have health conditions or take medications that make it harder for them to acclimate.”
Heatstroke vs. heat exhaustion
We’ve all heard the terms “heatstroke” and “heat exhaustion”, and can be forgiven for thinking they’re one and the same. However, while these two conditions are different, they’re equally serious and can be fatal if not treated with urgency.
Heat exhaustion
This occurs as a result of decreased blood pressure caused by the loss of body fluids and electrolytes after spending too much time in the sun. This condition can become quite serious if immediate action isn’t taken. Symptoms develop very quickly and can include:
- Heavy, continuous sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Heavy breathing
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Seizures
Certain groups of people (such as the elderly, the young and diabetics) are more at risk of getting heatstroke. Quickly move the affected person to a cool place and give them water to drink. If the person doesn’t feel better within half an hour, call a doctor.
Heatstroke
This occurs when the body’s temperature becomes dangerously high due to prolonged exposure to heat. Heatstroke is of special concern in the elderly and vulnerable people with existing illnesses. Symptoms can develop over a number of days and may include:
- Heavy, continuous sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Heavy breathing
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Seizures
This condition is a medical emergency and an ambulance or doctor should be called immediately. Give the affected person water to drink, try to cool them off with damp towels, and keep them out of the sun while you wait for medical assistance.
What you can do
The good news is that, with the right precautions, you and your loved ones can safely enjoy the hot summer months. Here are the most effective strategies:
• Enjoy outdoor activities only when the temperature is cooler (early morning or late afternoon).
• Try to avoid any strenuous physical activity in the heat or in hot, humid conditions.
• Seek shade when the sun is at its highest (between 10am and 3pm).
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when you’re outdoors.
• If you’re in the sun during this time, apply and reapply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen (SPF 30+).
• Stay hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals. Be careful not to overdo your drinking, as it’s also possible to over-hydrate.
• Ensure persons with mobility problems have adequate fluids in easy reach.
• Spend time in air-conditioned areas during the hottest times of the day, and stay indoors on particularly hot days.
• Check that your medication doesn’t affect your sensitivity to heat. If it does, talk to your doctor about other precautionary measures.
