Older Adults and Heat Warning
The National Weather Service has issued a heat related warning for St. Louis and surrounding areas through next Thursday. The area has already experienced three heat related deaths this summer, and the staff at St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions would like to take this opportunity to remind clients of the importance of checking on older loved ones and neighbors during this warning period.
Older adults are more susceptible to heat related-illness as their bodies may lose the ability to sweat and get rid of heat as quickly. They may also have other health conditions or take medications that make them prone to being more severely affected by the heat.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. Heat stroke occurs with the body temperature rises rapidly and the body is unable to cool down. Some warning signs of heat stroke include extremely high body temperature, throbbing headache, rapid pulse, dizziness, heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea. Red, hot, dry skin with no sweating is also a sign of heat stroke. Heat stroke can lead to death or permanent disability if treatment is not administered quickly.
During this heat wave please remember to spend the majority of your time indoors in cool, air-conditioned areas. Limit your outdoor activity, particularly during the hottest hours of the afternoon. Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after any strenuous activity. Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can lead to dehydration. Wear loose fitting, light-colored clothing to keep cool and wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
If you have older loved ones or neighbors who live alone, please be sure to check on them daily to ensure that they have access to air-conditioning and that this is in use. Make sure that they have plenty of food, water, and medication, and that they are able to avoid going out in the heat if at all possible. These simple steps in prevention can save a life!!
The compassionate staff at St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions serves and supports older adults and their families by providing respite care, care management, and nursing services. For more information contact your Caring Workplace Eldercare Specialist, Heather O’ Brien at 314-802-5106,Toll free 1-888-388-1930 or hobrien@standrews1.com