The constant heat and humidity of summer affects all human beings but senior citizens are more susceptible to medical problems due to high temperatures. For this reason, it is very important for the elderly and those who care for them heed heat warnings and high temperature forecasts.
Seniors can suffer multiple health problems as the result of summer heat and may not often realize the impact high temperatures have on their bodies. It is vital seniors drink plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration. Water is best and alcohol and caffeinated products should be avoided.
Staying inside a cool place during the hottest part of the day can help to ease some of the stress heat can bring. Air conditioning is ideal even if you have to go to a public place to cool off such as a library or shopping mall for a few hours. Inside temperatures can quickly become unbearable and prove deadly. Wearing cool, loose clothing can help keep the body from overheating.
Heat stroke, dehydration, and other medical conditions can affect seniors much faster than others. Some people cannot fully realize they are becoming ill from heat, especially if they suffer from other medical conditions.
If you know elderly people in your family or in your neighborhood, be sure to take the time to do a welfare check on them during heat waves of summer. Make sure they have working air conditioners or fans to keep air circulating or volunteer to take them to a location that offers cooler air temperatures. If you spend any time with elderly people in the summertime, make sure they have proper sunscreen applied to protect their skin and drink plenty of liquids when outdoors.
