Enjoy the Beautiful Weather but Take Care of Yourself!

Now that we are moving into the lazy days of summer, many of us cannot wait to get out and enjoy the warmer weather.  However seniors should know that higher temperatures and humidity can be dangerous for them if they are not careful.  According to a study from the University of Chicago Medical Center, 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. were in people over 65.  Signs of heat-related illness include headache, confusion, dizziness, or nausea; and if you do get overheated, it is important to get relief quickly. 

To prevent hyperthermia (overheating), the National Institute of Health (NIH) cautions the elderly to avoid the outdoors during the hottest part of the day, and warn it is not only 100°F temperatures that put them at risk.  They explain seniors are more susceptible to heat-related illness for a number of reasons including the normal aging of sweat glands and changes to the skin.  

Also medications used to treat health conditions common in the elderly such as “diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and some heart and high blood pressure medicines;” can make it harder for the body to cool itself.  In addition heart, lung or kidney diseases can cause heat-increasing fevers. 

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests when seniors do go outside to do it in the early morning or evening and sit in the shade.  They also recommend using sunscreen of SPF 30 on any exposed skin every day, whether you are inside or out.  Additionally drink plenty of water and fruit or vegetable juices, and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.  If you don’t have air conditioning, keep the blinds closed during the heat of the day; and take cool showers, baths or sponge baths if you feel overheated.  Doctors also suggest getting to a place where you can sit in air conditioning like the mall, and if you cannot cool down; seek medical help as heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.

Another all-too common problem for seniors is dehydration.  As we age, the thirst sensation diminishes, and instead of our bodies signaling the need for fluids, we don’t feel thirsty.  Dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization in the elderly, and as early signs include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness and muscle cramps, they are often attributed to other problems.  Anne Vanderbilt, CNS, a geriatric nurse says, “By the time they are thirsty, that’s already an indication of early dehydration,” so have water available to sip throughout the day.   Enjoy the nice weather but please play it safe!

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Des Moines – West Des Moines has to offer.

Source:

nia.nih.gov/health/hot-weather-safety-older-adults

health.clevelandclinic.org/drink-up-dehydration-is-an-often-overlooked-health-risk-for-seniors/