Summer Safety Tips

Effects of Heat Stress on The Elderly

Temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can be very dangerous, especially when the humidity is also high.

Your chances of getting sick in hot weather are increased by:

• A weak or damaged heart
  
• Hypertension
  
• Problems with circulation
  
• Diabetes
  
• A previous stroke
  
• Being overweight
  
• Emphysema or other respiratory problems
  
• Kidney problems
  
• Infection or fever
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Drinking alcoholic beverages
  
• Skin diseases or sunburn which can reduce sweating
  
• Certain medications ( if you take medications for high blood pressure, nervousness, depression,
  poor circulation or sleeplessness, check with your doctor or pharmacist for advice in hot weather.)

Warning Signs of Heat Related Illness

MILD

• Lack of energy lasting for several days
  
• Loss of appetite lasting for several days
  
• Fainting
  
• Heat Cramp
  
• Prickly Heat

SERIOUS

• Dizziness
  
• Rapid Heart beat
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Nausea
  
• Throbbing headache
  
• Dry skin with no sweating
  
• Chest pain
  
• Great weakness
  
• Mental Changes
  
• Breathing problems
  
• Vomiting

How to Survive the Heat

• Stay indoors in a cool room
  
• Keep Activity to a minimum
  
• Cool home with fans
  
• Take cool baths or showers (water temperature around 75 degrees)
  
• Wear light weight; light colored , loose fitting clothing made of natural fibers
  
• Drink plenty of water
  
• Eat regularly
  
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals
  
• Watch salt intake (check with your doctor)
  
• Avoid alcohol
  
• Keep in touch with family and friends
  
• Get help if you feel unusually weak, dizzy or confused
  

[go back to where you were . . .]