We’ve sweated through the first heat wave of the summer, but more are on the way. That’s why it’s a good time to review tips for staying safe as temperatures rise.
The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) reminds older residents that extreme heat should be treated with the same care and preparation as summer storms. By visiting ODA’s website, older Ohioans, their loved ones, and their caregivers can find tips on how to handle extreme heat.
Checking in helps them feel connected and lets them know you care. It also allows you to ensure they are safe and healthy and have the resources to stay that way.
Here’s what to look for:
- Is the temperature in their home comfortable? Do they have safe means to keep it that way if it stays hot outside?
- Do they need medical attention? Do they appear alert and aware? Have they fallen? Are they staying cool enough? Are they taking their medications as prescribed?
- Do they have safe food and water? Are they eating and drinking regularly?
- Do they have someone to call if they need help?
One reason older adults are at risk of dehydration is that, as they age, the thirst reflex is naturally diminished—they may not even know they are thirsty. Individuals taking medications for blood pressure, especially water pills or diuretics, are also at greater risk of dehydration. Older adults can help avoid dehydration by increasing their overall water intake above the baseline recommendation of 8-10 eight-ounce glasses per day.
To stay cool during extremely hot days, the department recommends:
- Drinking plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages (avoiding extremely cold liquids and beverages with high levels of sugar or caffeine);
- Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and resting frequently;
- Planning outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
- Taking cool baths or showers.
- Seeking an air-conditioned environment, such as a store, restaurant, public library or a family member’s or neighbor’s home, if the indoor temperature in your home is higher than is comfortable.
Learn the warning signs of heat-related illnesses and know what to do if you or an older loved one shows symptoms:
Heat cramps are muscle pains and spasms, mostly in the legs, caused by dehydration and exertion. Though not life-threatening, heat cramps can be very painful. To prevent and treat heat cramps, drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic liquids, rest and stay in a cool environment.
Heat exhaustion is caused by heavy sweating and results in not enough fluids to support your vital organs. Symptoms include cool, moist, pale, flushed or red skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; and lack of energy. Heat exhaustion is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness, so seek medical attention and take steps to reduce the body temperature and increase hydration. These include moving to a cooler environment, drinking cool, non-alcoholic liquids, loosening or removing clothing and cooling the body with wet towels or a cool shower or bath.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition in which the individual’s body is no longer able to control its internal temperature. Signs of heat stroke include hot, red and dry skin; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; and high fever. Heat stroke can also cause disorientation or strange behavior, which may be more difficult to identify in an individual with dementia. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing heat stroke.
