Extreme heat and aging

July 15, 2009

Gina Noe The Richmond Register Wed Jul 15, 2009, 10:46 AM EDT

Summertime in Kentucky comes with the dangerous combination of extreme heat and high humidity. When a person’s body cannot properly cool itself and adjust to the heat, heat-related illnesses are likely to strike. High body temperature is dangerous and may cause damage to the brain and other vital organs. One common heat-related illness to which older adults are particularly susceptible is hyperthermia.

Hyperthermia refers to extremely high body temperature. Body temperatures soar when the body absorbs or produces more heat than it can get rid of. Extreme forms of hyperthermia are referred to as heat stroke or sunstroke.

Older adults are vulnerable to hyperthermia for a variety of reasons. The numbers of sweat glands diminish in old age and do not function as well. This reduces a person’s ability to perspire, which allows the body to regulate temperature. Normal changes in the skin cause older adults to have more difficulty regulating their body temperature and adjusting to extremes temperatures. Certain medical conditions common to old age can decrease the body’s ability to perspire. Such conditions include heart, kidney, and central nervous system diseases, dehydration, diabetes and certain medications.

It is important to protect yourself and others from the heat. While it is critical to stay indoors on hot and humid days, it is important to note that sometimes electric fans are not enough to prevent heat-related illness when the temperatures are high. If air conditioning is not available, try to take cool baths or showers or go to an air-conditioned place. Even a few hours in air conditioning can help the body stay cooler when it is time to go back into the heat.

To protect yourself from the heat, cut down on exercise and limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. Wear light-weight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing. Protect yourself from the sun with wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen. Take breaks in shady areas as much as possible when outdoors. Never leave anyone or stay in a closed, parked vehicle.

If you are an older adult or know someone who is older, remind yourself that both of you are at increased risk for heat-related illnesses. It is important that you can check on those you know and to have people who can regularly assure your own summer safety.

(Source: Amy F. Hosier, Extension Specialist for Family Life, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture)

Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability or national origin.

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