Delirium

Keeping Cool: Managing Summer Heat for Seniors

The National Safety Council reports that seniors are among the highest risk groups for heat stroke and heat-related illnesses. The American Association of Family Physicians characterizes heat exhaustion as having nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, headache, and nausea. Left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, a much more serious illness, involving central nervous system dysfunction such as delirium and coma.

"Heat-related issues are avoidable if we prepare for the higher temperatures appropriately," explained Leann Reynolds, president of Homewatch CareGivers. "Following our summer guidelines will help prevent heat-related illnesses and keep all of us safe and cool for the summer."

Focus on Fluids:

Dehydration can lead to fatigue, a drop in blood pressure, perceptions of overall body weakness, and even fainting. John H. Bland, M.D., author of Live Long, Die Fast: Playing the Aging Game to Win says in his book that, "As you age (your body) becomes less responsive to changes in the blood. By the time you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. This little-known fact becomes even truer as you age. Though you are fully capable of requesting and obtaining water, you will experience thirst less and less as you age."

Those who have problems communicating their thirst (infants and those whose bodies cannot normally regulate fluids) need to have their fluids monitored. Your adult loved-ones should be drinking at least a quart of water per day, and that children are properly hydrated according to their ages.

Keep your Cool

People are often tempted by the warm days of summer time to rush outdoors and start exerting energy right away. Many people, especially older adults, struggle with temperature regulation and for these individuals, it is best to take sun exposure slowly. Proper exposure of the sun has recently been linked to improving vitamin D deficiency in the elderly, and can also help maintain overall health. However, it is important to take the proper precautions when heading for the outdoors. Sunscreen with an SPF 15 or more should be applied to all exposed areas, and periodic breaks in the shade are recommended to help to acclimate to the heat and sun.

Wear what's loose

Make sure that you and those you care for adjust their wardrobe according to the temperature. Clothing in the summer heat should be light and loose, and this includes footwear. If high-summer temperatures are unavoidable, wear a moist cloth or bandana on your neck to help stay cool, as well as a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from sunburn.

If you or someone you love is affected with a heat-related illness, it is vital to contact the appropriate health care professional immediately. Prompt response to heat stroke can help prevent other more serious illnesses. For more educational resources about care-giving services visit www.homewatchcaregivers.com

Rob Cleveland is with Homewatch CareGivers, the largest, most experienced international provider of full-service home care. Homewatch CareGivers provides in-home services for people of all ages, including seniors, children, veterans, the chronically ill, and those recovering from medical procedures.

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Keywords: Life Sciences, Delirium, Pediatrics, Neurology, Headache, Fatigue, Nausea, Coma, Blood Pressure, Aging.

This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Pain & Central Nervous System Week via NewsRx.com.