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~ by Richard Sgaglio
Summertime is fun time. It’s a great season to be outdoors enjoying the sun, fresh air and comradery of others. However, when spending time outdoors in the summer months, one should be careful about not overheating – especially as we age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 650 people die each year from heat-related illnesses. In 2019, 36% of heat-related deaths in the U.S. were among people over age 65. Many of these older Americans also had underlying health conditions.
Part of the problem lies in the fact that older people simply can't handle the heat as well as younger individuals because they don't sweat as effectively and can have poor circulation. Obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic medical conditions can compound the risk, as can certain medications like diuretics which help remove excess fluid from the body. Fortunately, there are simple ways of protecting our aging loved ones from overheating.
To protect seniors from the unrelenting summer heat, the standard advice is for them to remain inside air-conditioned buildings, dress lightly, and keep hydrated. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, since poor circulation often causes seniors to catch a chill more easily. It’s not uncommon for an elder to reach for a sweater or turn on the heat in their home even though it's unbearably hot outside.
According to the website Everyday Health, dehydration is another serious concern. The body’s natural thirst mechanism becomes less effective with age, so many seniors are perpetually dehydrated regardless of the season. To make things worse, elders often prefer beverages like coffee and soda to water. While drinks that are high in caffeine and sugar do contain some fluids, water is always the best option for staying hydrated.
While dehydration and overheating can be dangerous, the real threat to avoid this summer is heat stroke. It can come on quickly and affects all people differently. If you and an older loved one are out in the heat for long periods of time, keep an eye out for symptoms like confusion or altered mental state. It’s good to keep a conversation going so you can help judge their ongoing state of mind.
Heat stroke happens when the body overheats, typically to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. It’s a serious condition and requires immediate emergency treatment. If not treated, heat stroke can damage the brain, heart, and kidneys. The longer it takes to get treatment, the higher the risk for serious complications or even death. If your loved one should collapse or lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 immediately. It is not advisable to leave an older person outside in the summer sun alone – make sure someone is available to check on them in case they need anything or find the heat too much.
Summertime is a wonderful time of the year. It’s fun to spend time outdoors with family and friends. You can enjoy time in your backyard or visits to the park or the beach, but always remember as we age, we become more susceptible to sun and heat related issues – so be sure to enjoy in moderation.
The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.