Seniors: Excessive Heat is Here, part 1

It is hot outside. In many parts of the country, the combination of heat and humidity can be debilitating to even the most robust and healthy individuals. However, the elderly can be especially vulnerable to the effects of heat.

The human body cools itself most efficiently by sweating, and then having the sweat evaporate. But sometimes this normal bodily function can experience problems — either due to the body’s inability to maintain temperature control, or the external environment being excessively hot. Or, a combination of both.

Heat exhaustion may occur when a person exercises or works in a hot environment. For example, an elder who works in their backyard garden may be exposed to the combination of heat and physical exertion. If their sweating cannot dissipate the heat generated within the body, heat-related illness can occur.

Heat exhaustion is part of a progression of symptoms which may be preceded by a prickly heat rash on the skin, or muscular heat cramps. The body temperature is too hot, and the cooling system can’t work fast enough. Sweating and perspiration is unable to meet the cooling demands of the individual. Often, “dehydration” occurs because the person hasn’t replaced bodily fluids – water – lost by sweating.

Be safe. If your elderly parents are outside often, encourage them to:

— Seek shade for relaxation and cooling
— Hydrate: have water on hand in order to replenish fluids
— Take frequent breaks: allow your body to regulate temperature control

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