It’s been a hot and humid summer, with many regions experiencing record-breaking temperatures.
The term “heat dome” became part of the vernacular. According to an article by The Washington Post, “heat domes are towering and slow-moving areas of high pressure that trap hot air — and they can often lead to heat waves. Heat waves, meanwhile, are periods of unusually hot weather that typically last two or more days in a given area.”
These periods of intense heat and humidity can present significant health and safety challenges for older adults. An article by The Herald explains that as people age, their bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature, and it becomes harder to recognize thirst. This makes seniors highly susceptible to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
To help keep older adults safe during the summer, you want to pay attention to these four things:
Stay hydrated — Seniors should drink water continuously throughout the day, rather than waiting until they feel thirsty.
Manage medication — Certain medications (like diuretics, beta-blockers, and antihistamines) can increase dehydration or impair the body’s ability to cool down.
Keep cool — Air conditioning is a medical necessity, not a luxury, when the temperatures soar.
Limit time outside — It’s best to stay indoors when it’s hot and humid. But, if you must go outdoors, try to do that in the early morning (before 10 a.m.) or evening (after 7 p.m.) when the UV index and temperatures are at their lowest.
To learn more about senior health and wellness, look through some of our other articles on Council of Seniors 365.
And be sure to stop by CouncilofSeniors.com to learn how we’re working to improve the financial well-being of America’s retirees.
