Summer temperatures especially hard on seniors

Summer heat can be dangerous for anyone, but seniors run a greater risk than most of developing the high body temperature condition known as hyperthermia, experts at the U.S. National Institute on Aging warn.

The middle of June brought some higher temperatures to Texarkana with several days where the heat index made it feel like more than 100 degrees outside.

Hyperthermia is elevated body temperature that occurs when a body produces or absorbs more heat than it dissipates. Extreme temperature elevation then becomes a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

As a result of the body’s inability to regulate body temperature after exposure to very hot weather, the elderly may face several heat-related health problems, including heat fatigue and exhaustion, sudden dizziness, heat cramps and heat stroke (when body temperature rises above 104 degrees Farenheit.)

NIA experts advise elderly individuals—especially those coping with chronic heart, lung and/or kidney diseases, as well as sweat gland problems and poor circulation — to stay indoors on very hot and humid days, as well as on those occasions when pollution advisories are in effect.

If air conditioning is unavailable at home, the NIA suggests that seniors try to take advantage of cooler locales, such as senior centers, malls, movie theaters, churches and religious facilities, social service organizations and libraries.

This was harder to do during the summer of 2020 due to COVID-19 but many seniors are vaccinated now and venturing back out to public places.

Drinking a lot of fluids while avoiding alcohol and caffeine is also critical, as is dressing appropriately and avoiding crowds.

Older men and women who routinely take medications for a variety of health conditions are advised not to stop taking their drugs without first consulting their physician. However, elderly patients should nonetheless be aware that diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers and blood pressure medications in some cases can elevate the risk for developing hyperthermia.

Anyone thought to be suffering from a heat-related condition should be brought to a shaded or air-conditioned location and encouraged to lie down and cool off by using a sponge and cool water, or a shower or bath, if possible. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911.

The NIA also notes those in need can be helped by applying a cold, wet cloth to those body parts where the blood circulates close to the skin surface, such as the wrist, neck, armpit and groin areas.

People, especially seniors, should take these steps to deal with the heat safely according to the American Red Cross.

Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

■ Eat small meals and eat more often.

■ Avoid extreme temperature changes.

■ Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

■ Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.

■ Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.

■ Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.