Heat Stress And The Elderly

With unseasonably hot weather in August and September this year, I felt it more than I can ever remember.  In years gone by the heat would be a slight inconvenience.  This year, it really knocked me out.  We always hear how heat can affect the young and elderly, and here are some reasons why.

Your brain sends signals to your body when it begins to overheat.  The signals prompt your body to release hormones that cause you to sweat.  Sweating is your body's air-conditioning system.  Sometimes it gets too hot for this cooling mechanism to work and becomes less efficient as you age.  Numerous factors can put you at higher risk of overheating, including decreased blood circulation, a salt restricted diet, certain medications, being overweight or underweight, and lifestyle factors like living in a hot home. Seniors must recognize the symptoms as soon as possible.  Muscle cramps, swelling and dizziness, fatigue and thirst are just some of the symptons of overheating.

If you or someone you're with exhibits some of these symptons, you may have heat stroke and you should seek immediate medical help.  Keep yourself safe from heatstroke by listening to the weather forecast, staying in a cool place, avoid exercising in the heat, avoid caffeine and alcohol,  and drink plenty of liquids.

Part of the problem is that many elderly citizens do not see themselves as old.  They don't think this information applies to them, but for anyone over 65, this information is important.  Elderly people that live alone may ignore the symptoms and are at higher risk.  Medications may in some cases hinder the body's ability to regulate temperature.  The aging body doesn't cope with sudden stresses as quickly as a younger body.  It does not produce sweat as efficiently on a hot day as a younger body.  The bottom line is "Listen to your body" and drink plenty of water.  In most cases, this will keep you from being a statistic.  Thousands of elderly are treated every year for heat stroke.  Don't be one of them.