Summer heatwaves are uncomfortable for young, healthy people. However, the risks involved are much greater for seniors, who are more vulnerable to heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and several other serious medical conditions. So what is the cause of this temperature sensitivity? And how can you keep safe while still maintaining your desire for independent living? The guide below explains.

Senior Citizens & Extreme Heat

Why Seniors Fair Worse When It’s Hot Out

Like many other body systems, sweat glands and other heat regulators grow less efficient over the years. As a result, many seniors don’t begin sweating until they’re already overheating. Furthermore, many older adults often have medical conditions or take medications that hamper the body’s temperature-control mechanisms, which exacerbate the problem.

Symptoms of Heat Injuries

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause your body to lose too much water and salts, eventually leading to heat exhaustion. Profuse sweating, low blood pressure, muscle cramping, and fainting are all common signs of this condition, which can lead to heatstroke if left untreated.

Heatstroke is especially dangerous, and may even be fatal in some circumstances. During heatstroke, a person’s body temperature shoots past 103 degrees, potentially damaging the heart, brain, kidneys, and muscle tissue. Therefore, call 911 if you or a loved one have hot, red skin with no sweat, a rapid pulse, confusion, and an intense headache.

How Seniors Can Protect Themselves From Heatstroke

Due to their age, seniors can overheat very quickly. Therefore, those who practice independent living should avoid strenuous outdoor activity when the temperature is high. Fans can’t cool your house when temperatures are in the 90s, so keep your air conditioner on, and wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Drink plenty of water, without waiting until you’re thirsty to get a glass. Also, consider investing in a medical alarm. These necklace-like devices can alert emergency personnel of a situation if you can’t make it to the phone. They’re also waterproof and long-ranging so they can be activated from the shower or your backyard garden.
 

For over 20 years, Commstar Alarms has provided state-of-the-art protection to seniors engaged in independent living throughout southern Colorado. They proudly combine the personal attention of a local company with the capabilities and reliability of national medical alarm brands, giving you the security you need and the service you deserve. Visit their website for more on their cutting-edge medical alarm systems and other tools used to support independent living. Call (719) 285-4456 with questions.