BEAT the Heat: Your Guide to Staying Safe This Summer

As we step into the first days of summer, many parts of the country are bracing for sweltering heat just around the corner.

And while soaking up some sun can feel great after a long winter, it’s important to remember that extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially for seniors.

With age comes a greater vulnerability to heat-related illnesses, but by understanding the dangers and taking some simple precautions, you can enjoy the summer months safely.

One of the most dangerous heat-related conditions is heat stroke, a medical emergency that occurs when your body’s temperature-regulating mechanism is overwhelmed.

If you experience symptoms like confusion, dizziness, fainting, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, or seizures during hot weather, seek medical help IMMEDIATELY.

Bystanders should call 911 and move the affected person to a cool, shaded area, applying cold compresses to the neck, armpits, and groin while waiting for help to arrive.

Less severe but still concerning is heat exhaustion, which can cause nausea, tiredness, dizziness, headache, heavy sweating, and cool, clammy skin.

If you notice these symptoms, move to a cool place right away, loosen your clothes, and take a cool bath or apply wet cloths to your body. Watch for worsening symptoms and seek help if you don’t improve within an hour.

Engaging in physical activity during hot weather can also lead to painful muscle spasms called heat cramps. If this happens, stop exercising, find a cool spot, and drink water or an electrolyte solution.

But the dangers of extreme heat go beyond these direct effects on the body. High temperatures can also exacerbate underlying medical conditions, putting extra strain on the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

In fact, researchers estimate that the interaction between heat and cardiovascular disease was either a direct or contributory cause of 1 in 4 heat-related deaths. Chronic conditions like diabetes and some mental health diagnoses can also worsen during heat extremes.

So, how can you protect yourself? First and foremost, try to limit your time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day. If you need to be outside, seek shade whenever possible and stay well-hydrated. Those around you can help by monitoring your time outdoors and watching for any concerning symptoms.

If you have a chronic medical condition, be extra cautious during heat waves. Certain medications can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature, so talk to your doctor about any special precautions you should take.

For seniors who don’t have access to air conditioning at home, seeking out local resources like cooling centers and temporary shelters can be a lifesaver during extreme heat events. And if you do have to be outdoors for work or other reasons, remember to drink plenty of water, use good sun protection, and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.

Finally, it’s important to remember that extreme weather events are a time when we all need to look out for each other. Check in on elderly neighbors and loved ones during heat waves, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it yourself.

To beating the heat and thriving this summer,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. The secret to summer weight loss? UNLOCK your body’s brown fat potential.

Sources:

Katia Hetter. (2024). How to prevent heat stroke and other heat-related emergencies. CNN.