Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe in Extreme Heat

Author

SYNERGY HomeCare of Daphne

For more information about the author, click to view their website: SYNERGY HomeCare of Daphne

Posted on

Jul 20, 2022

Book/Edition

Alabama - Gulf Coast

Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe in the Heat: Water, Water Everywhere


Seniors are more at risk for dehydration in general because they have a lower fluid content and a decreased thirst response. So the trick to staying hydrated, especially when it’s really hot, is to drink plenty of water, even when you don’t feel thirsty.


Many medications can cause dehydration, such as beta-blockers and diuretics prescribed for people with high blood pressure. Some allergy or anxiety medications trick our bodies into not sweating and as a result, we don’t FEEL hot so we don’t drink water.


It’s critical to understand how a senior’s medications are affected by the heat. Read the drug insert, research it online or consult with a physician.


Staying hydrated can prevent dizziness that often accompanies dehydration – and since dizziness can increase the risk of falls, drinking lots of water can reduce the likelihood of a fall-related injury.


Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe in the Heat: How to Stay Cool


  • Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.
  • Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing like cotton or linen.
  • Seek air-conditioned places. If your home doesn’t have AC, visit a local cooling station, the library, a recreation center, a senior center or a mall. Local Area Agencies on Aging can connect seniors with rides.
  • Close windows and curtains to block out sun and heat during the day.
  • Drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol and caffeine.
  • Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath. Keep a cool washcloth on the back of the neck.
  • The CDC recommends using electric fans only when the temperature is below the high 90s. Any hotter and AC or a cool shower works better at cooling.
  • Limit your oven use
  • If your house is hot, try to spend time during mid-day at a facility that has air conditioning such as the library, a senior center, a friend’s house or a movie. 


Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe in the Heat: Managing Medications


As we age, we often become more sensitive to medications and high heat can make it worse.

Medications for high blood pressure like beta-blockers and diuretics can make some people dehydrated, which can be exacerbated by high heat.


Some allergy or anxiety medications trick our bodies into not feeling overheated which can lead to dehydration or heatstroke.


If someone you know is taking medications like these, it’s important to check on them regularly when it’s hot. Make sure they are taking the appropriate dose, staying hydrated and staying out of the heat.


This article was submitted by Synergy HOMECARE in Daphne, AL and can be reached at 251-621-1900.


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Non-Medical 1048 Stanton Rd Ste D, Daphne, Alabama, 36526

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