What can you do to stay cool this summer?
People 65 and older do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature, and are more likely to have chronic medical conditions that upset the body’s normal responses to heat. Older adults are also more likely to take prescription medicines that impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature or that inhibit sweating.
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are dangerous, but there are many ways to protect yourself and your elderly relatives and neighbors. For example, you can drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages; take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath; and wear lightweight clothing. If you do not have air conditioning, consider spending some time at an air-conditioned location such as a public library or shopping mall.
If you see any signs of severe heat stress, such as dizziness or nausea, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency—have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling down the affected person.
To learn more, visit the following Web sites:
You can find additional information on the U.S. Administration on Aging Web site at
www.aoa.gov. To find resources available in your community, contact the Eldercare Locator at (800) 677-1116 or visit www.eldercare.gov .
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| Last Modified: 7/16/2009 9:07:32 AM |
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