3 Reasons Extreme Heat Is Especially Dangerous for Older Adults

Extreme heat affects all of us, but older adults can be especially vulnerable when temperatures rise.

Here are three reasons extreme heat deserves special attention from caregivers, family members, and neighbors.

1. The Body Handles Heat Differently With Age

As we age, the body may not adjust to heat as efficiently. Older adults may sweat less, circulate blood less effectively, and hold on to more heat when temperatures climb. Some may also feel less thirsty, even when their bodies need more fluids. It can be difficult for even a healthy older adult to recognize that they are becoming overheated or dehydrated. Caregivers can help by offering water regularly instead of waiting for the person to ask for it. Encourage loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and keep the home as cool as possible. A cool shower or damp washcloth may also help the person feel cooler.

Watch for signs that the body may be struggling with the heat, including:

• Muscle cramps

• Heavy sweating

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Weakness

• Nausea

• Confusion or unusual behavior

  
  

Call 911 if someone appears seriously ill or is not responding normally.

Below is a great resources by the Health in Aging Foundation about heat related health issues.

2. Health Conditions and Medications Can Increase the Risk

Many older adults live with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease, or kidney problems. They also take medications for these conditions, including medicines for blood pressure, diabetes, pain, allergies, depression, Parkinson’s disease, or overactive bladder.

Both certain health conditions and medications can make it harder for the body to respond to heat. This may lead to heat intolerance, which means feeling overheated or unwell when the temperature rises.

Dementia can make the situation even more complicated. A person living with dementia may not recognize thirst, communicate discomfort, understand that a room is too warm, or realize that they are becoming overheated.

Caregivers should ask the person’s medical team for proper medical guidance.

Do not stop, skip, or change any medication without consulting a medical professional.

3. Some Older Adults Have Fewer Ways to Stay Cool

Extreme heat is not only a health issue. It is also a financial and community issue.

Some older adults may have air conditioning but avoid using it because they are worried about the utility bill. Others may live in neighborhoods with fewer trees, less shade, and more pavement, causing temperatures to rise faster and remain hotter for longer.

Caregivers can help by looking for local energy-assistance programs and cooling resources.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP, may help eligible households with energy bills and certain cooling-related costs. Find your local LIHEAP administrator here: https://www.liheap.org/directory

Libraries, senior centers, community centers, and other public buildings may serve as cooling centers during heat emergencies. Contact them to ask about available services, hours, and transportation options. If you are unsure whom to contact, call 211 to get connected with local resources. 211 is a free, confidential service that helps people find community programs and assistance in their area.

Neighbors can help too. Take a moment to check on older adults in your neighborhood and ask how they are handling the heat. Are they feeling unwell? Do they need help with anything? Does their home feel cool enough?

A quick visit or phone call may seem small, but during extreme heat, it could help prevent a serious health emergency.

This article was made by  Elder Love USA.

As the only nonprofit agency in California offering home care services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate affordable in-home care.  

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Our rates are lower than other providers thanks to partnerships, donations, grants, and revenue from our cleaning program.  

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