Help Senior Loved Ones Beat the Heat

Parts of Canada have already experienced seasonal heat alerts this year, and there are plenty of summer days yet to go. Working or playing in the sun, spending time in an unventilated home, or sitting in a closed vehicle can result in uncomfortable and even health-threatening temperatures. And even though seniors may be least likely to complain about the effects of summer weather, they are at highest risk for the dangers of extreme heat.

As we grow older, decreased blood circulation and a less efficient perspiration mechanism make it harder for our bodies to regulate temperature. Common health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, kidney or lung problems or an unhealthy body weight are also a factor. Even the medications we take can interrupt the body's ability to protect itself.

During warm weather, be sure to check on older friends and loved ones. Here are ways to help them stay safe and comfortable during periods of higher heat:

Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, even if they don't feel thirsty. On hot days, the body loses moisture more rapidly, so it's important to stay hydrated with water or fruit juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which cause the body to lose more fluid. (Seniors who are on a fluid-restricted diet should follow their healthcare provider's instructions during periods of heat.)

If your loved one's home does not have air conditioning, keep the temperature comfortable by letting in cool air during the early morning and evening hours. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on two sides of the building. Use fans to circulate cooler air. Close curtains and blinds during the warmest hours.

If the home is still uncomfortably warm, arrange for your loved one to take a break at an air conditioned location during the hottest part of the day. Shopping malls, movie theaters and libraries are usually air conditioned. And many communities provide emergency cooling shelters, located in schools, community centres, auditoriums and other public places.

Remind them to dress for the weather in short-sleeve, loose-fitting garments. Natural fibers and light colors are cooler than synthetic materials and dark colors. And don't forget a sun hat!

Have them use sunblock when outdoors. Sunburn further reduces our body's ability to regulate heat.

Be Alert for Heat-Related Illness

Dizziness, weakness, nausea, and excess perspiration can all be signs that a senior loved one is suffering from heat exhaustion, and should quickly move to an air-conditioned or other cooler place. Offer fluids such as water and fruit juice. A cool shower or sponge bath also helps cool the blood.

If ignored, heat exhaustion can progress to a dangerous condition called heat stroke. The symptoms of heatstroke are:

• Fainting
• Body temperature over 40° C. 
• Confusion, staggering 
• Dry, flushed skin with no sweating 
• Strong, rapid pulse 
• Headache 
• Unconsciousness

If you suspect a person is suffering from heat stroke, call 911. The victim should be seen by a physician immediately!

Other heat related conditions include:

• Heat cramps (a painful tightening of the muscles of the abdomen, arms or legs)
• Heat edema (swelling of the ankles and feet)
• Heat syncope (a sudden dizziness and rapid pulse that usually occurs when someone is exercising in the heat).

For More Information

The Red Cross offers information on safety during heat alerts.

Visit the Health Canada website to find suggestions for keeping safe during extreme heat events.

The Weather Network website issues notifications about heat alerts and warm weather safety. The Weather Office is another good source of heat warnings.

"Beat the Heat" Wordfind Give your brain a workout by finding 18 things having to do with hot weather safety that are hidden in this month's puzzle.