Heat waves, which are periods of high temperatures and frequently high humidity, are happening more frequently and for longer in Canada. Elderly people are more vulnerable to the negative effects of extreme heat on their health. When the next heat wave hits, remember these safety tips for elders and those who look after them.
Do regular wellness checks
Make time for routine phone calls with the elderly people in your life before a hot event to ensure their well-being. You can learn when to expect hotter temperatures by keeping an eye on weather forecasts. It may be simpler to remember to call if you have a specific time each day.
Consult with a health-care provider if they take medication
Some medications have the potential to disrupt the body’s capacity to tolerate heat. Ask your doctor if heat raises an older person’s risk of heat-related illnesses or if heat exacerbates the negative effects of any medications they may be on. Observe their medical recommendations.
Maintain their access to air conditioning
Many deaths from heat happen indoors. If they have air conditioning, they should have a professional maintain it once a year to ensure optimal operation. During the season, make sure to periodically check the filter on the unit and replace or clean it as needed.
In the event that they lack air conditioning, locate them close to places that offer relief from the heat between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., such as a community center, library, or mall with air conditioning.
Help them keep their cool
• During the day, shut the blinds, drapes, and windows.
• If there’s a cool nighttime breeze, open the windows.
• To cook, use a microwave rather than an oven.
• Urge them to take a cold shower or bath to remove heat from their body.
• Remind them to drink plenty of water all day long.
• Seniors should always wear airy, loose-fitting clothing and when they go outside, carry an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat to protect their heads.
Warning signs
Lastly, demonstrate to them how to spot the early warning indicators of a heat-related disease. Severe thirst, flushed skin, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fast breathing or heartbeat are a few of these. They should relocate to a cool area, sip water, and wait for the symptoms to pass if they are experiencing any of these.
Extreme symptoms that need to be treated right away include heatstroke, which is indicated by a high body temperature, no longer sweating, disorientation, or unconsciousness.
These tips will help you protect elderly people from the harmful effects of excessive heat, so they can enjoy a comfortable and healthy summer.
Learn more at: https://newscanada.com/en/How-to-protect-seniors-from-extreme-heat-139036
Reference: https://newscanada.com/
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