Older adults reminded to take caution in extreme heat

As temperatures across Ohio are expected to hit the 90s in the coming days, with some areas possibly feeling over 100 degrees with the heat index, the Ohio Department of Aging is urging older residents, their families and caregivers to take extra precautions.

The ODA emphasizes that extreme heat should be treated with the same seriousness as severe summer storms.

"As we get older, it's crucial to understand how our bodies react to very hot weather and take steps to stay cool," said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. "We also encourage everyone to regularly check on older family members and neighbors, as they are more likely to get sick or have problems because of the heat."

Checking in on older adults not only helps them feel connected but also allows you to make sure they are safe, healthy, and have the necessary resources. Key things to check include:

• Is their home cool enough, and can they keep it that way?
• Do they need medical attention? Are they alert, and are they taking their medications as prescribed?
• Do they have enough safe food and water, and are they eating and drinking regularly?
• Do they have someone to call if they need help?

"Older adults have many ways to lower their body temperature on hot days," said Dr. John Weigand, ODA's medical director. "Simple steps — like wearing light clothing or staying out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day — can greatly help older Ohioans avoid the worst effects of high heat."

Dr. Weigand noted that older adults are more prone to dehydration because their sense of thirst naturally lessens with age. Those taking blood pressure medications, especially diuretics or "water pills," are also at higher risk. To prevent dehydration, older adults should drink more water than the usual recommendation of eight to 10 eight-ounce glasses per day.

The ODA suggests the following to stay cool:

• Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic drinks. Avoid very cold liquids and drinks with high sugar or caffeine.
• Wear loose, lightweight clothing and take frequent rests.
• Plan outdoor activities for cooler times, such as early morning or late evening.
• Take cool baths or showers.

If your home is too warm, go to an air-conditioned place like a store, restaurant, public library, senior center, or a friend's or family member's home.

It's also important to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses:

• Heat cramps involve muscle pains and spasms, usually in the legs, from dehydration and exertion. Drink cool, non-alcoholic liquids, rest, and stay in a cool place.
• Heat exhaustion occurs from heavy sweating, leading to insufficient fluids. Symptoms include cool, moist, pale, flushed or red skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; and low energy. Seek medical attention and try to lower body temperature by moving to a cooler place, drinking cool liquids, loosening clothing, and using wet towels or a cool bath/shower.
• Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition where the body cannot control its temperature. Signs include hot, red, dry skin; a rapid, weak pulse; fast, shallow breathing; and a high fever. Disorientation or unusual behavior may also occur, which can be harder to spot in someone with dementia. Call for emergency medical attention immediately if heat stroke is suspected.

Your local area agency on aging can help older adults find resources like water, utility assistance, and cooling centers. Call 1-866-243-5678 to connect with the agency in your community.

For those in nursing homes, the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman at the Department of Aging advises families to call facilities to check on conditions and staffing. For assistance, call 1-800-282-1206.

Additional tips and resources for preparing for extreme heat and other emergencies are available on the ODA website.