Tips for Seniors to Avoid Heat Stroke/Exhaustion

Hot weather can be dangerous here in Georgia, and seniors are more inclined to its threat. Elderly heat stroke and heat exhaustion are real problems. There are several reasons for elderly heat vulnerability. A person’s ability to notice fluctuations in their body temperature decreases with age. Many seniors also have underlying health conditions that make them less able to adjust to heat or medication that can cause dehydration. Fortunately, only a few simple precautions are all that’s needed to keep safe.

Here are a few tips for keeping cool in hot weather:

Drink Plenty of Liquids

Dehydration is the root of many heat-related health problems. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you’re not thirsty. But remember to avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Wear Weather Appropriate Clothes
When it’s hot out, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and consider a wide-brimmed hat.

Stay Indoors During Mid-day Hours
When it’s the hottest outside, the best time to run errands or be outdoors is before 10am or after 6pm, when the temperature is cooler.

Relax and Take it Easy
Avoid exercise and strenuous activity, particularly outdoors, when it’s very hot out.

Watch the Local Heat Index
When there’s high humidity, the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is impaired. The heat index can be found online or also on local TV and radio weather reports.