Avoiding Heatstroke in Seniors

As temperatures continue to climb, it’s as important as ever to ensure that your senior stays hydrated and avoids heatstroke. We share some helpful tips to keep cool when the temperatures rise.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke, often referred to as sunstroke, occurs when the body can no longer regulate its own temperature. It’s defined as a rapidly increasing body temperature of more than 103 degrees Fahrenheit accompanied by neurological warning signs such as confusion, seizures, or even loss of consciousness. The National Institute on Aging states that: “If your senior has heatstroke, you need to seek medical help right away.” Older people living in homes or apartments without air conditioning or fans are most at risk. The good news? There are plenty of preventative measures one can take.

What are some of the signs of seniors with heatstroke?

• Fainting or losing unconsciousness (most often the first sign)
• A sudden change in behavior—confusion, agitation, staggering, being grouchy
• Body temperature over 104°F (40°C)
• Dry, flushed skin and a strong, rapid pulse or a slow, weak pulse
• Not sweating even though it is hot

Why are seniors at greater risk of getting heatstroke?

Seniors, on average, tend to sweat less. This makes them more vulnerable to heatstroke as their sweat glands can become ineffective with age. This is due to their bodies not retaining as much water as they would have previously done when they were younger. Poor blood circulation can also be a contributing factor. 

Certain chronic medications can cause dehydration in seniors. Medicines that have diuretic properties, such as certain heart disease medications or medications for acute kidney conditions, triggers the body to get rid of salts and water. The delicate balance between these salts and minerals is what keeps us hydrated. Without it, our bodies have no electrolytes, and we dehydrate. Certain tranquilizers and blood pressure drugs can worsen the onset of dehydration, leading to heatstroke. 

Some seniors merely forget to hydrate regularly, while others will purposefully avoid drinking too much water for fear of having to go to the bathroom constantly. It may sound unfathomable, but many seniors are afraid of being a nuisance in the company of others and having to continually excuse themselves from taking a bathroom break. When a senior is adequately hydrated, their bodily and cognitive functioning is at its best. The antithesis is also true when a senior is dehydrated, the body and mind will quickly start to deteriorate and will not function optimally. 

How to avoid heatstroke in seniors

• Get out of the sun and into a cool place—air-conditioning is best.
• Drink fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. Water and fruit or vegetable juices are good alternatives.
• Shower, bathe or sponge off with cool water as soon as possible.
• Lie down and rest in a cool place.
• Visit your doctor or go to an emergency room if your senior doesn’t cool down quickly.
• If your senior lives in a home or apartment without fans or air conditioning, try to keep their house as cool as possible. Limit oven usage. Keep your shades, blinds, or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. Open your windows at night.
• If your senior’s house is hot, try to get them to spend time during mid-day someplace that has air conditioning—for example, go to the shopping mall, movies, library, senior center, or a friend’s house.
• If your senior needs help to get to a cool place, ask a friend or relative. Some religious groups, senior centers, and Area Agencies on Aging provide this service. If necessary, take a taxi or call for senior transportation. Don’t stand outside in the heat waiting for a bus.
• Dress for the weather. Some people find natural fabrics, such as cotton, to be cooler than synthetic fibers.
• Don’t exercise or do a lot of activities outdoors when it’s hot.
• Avoid crowded places when it’s hot outside. Plan trips during non-rush-hour times.