How to Help Older Adults During Extreme Weather
As summer temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with heatwaves, particularly for older adults. According to the nonprofit Climate Central, more than 80% of the approximately 12,000 annual heat-related deaths in the United States occur in individuals over the age of 60. The growing older adult population will be more affected by more frequent heat waves fueled by climate change. That means we all have a role to play in understanding why older adults are more vulnerable in extreme heat and what we can do both collectively and independently to help prevent heat-related illnesses.
Understanding how heat affects older adults
Understanding why older adults are more vulnerable during these extreme weather events and knowing how to help can make a significant difference in an older person’s health during a heatwave. Studies have shown that even healthy older adults can struggle to know when they are dehydrated or too hot. But cognitive decline, certain medications, or other health conditions can cause changes to the way our bodies naturally regulate temperature.
Older adults often have a reduced ability to sweat, which is a natural cooling mechanism. Additionally, they may have a decreased sense of thirst, leading to inadequate hydration. Limited mobility can make it challenging for older adults to move to cooler places or access resources like air conditioning. Those living alone may not have immediate assistance to deal with heat-related issues.
Another factor is that the temperature at which an older person experiences adverse effects from hot weather is lower than the National Weather Service’s definition of a heat wave. Researchers from Harvard have learned that temperatures need only to rise above a region’s normal range to affect hydration, sleep, and cognition.
Harvard researcher Francesca Domenici says that science and medicine have made impressive advancements in understanding how a warming climate threatens human bodies.
“So many heat-related hospitalizations and deaths are preventable,” she says.
And given the growing older population, intervention by institutions and policymakers may be necessary. But individuals have a role to play in protecting our loved ones and members of our communities. Here are some recommendations:
- Stay hydrated: Ensure older adults drink plenty of water throughout the day. Offer them a variety of hydrating beverages like water, fruit juices, and herbal teas. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these can lead to dehydration.
- Keep the environment cool: Make sure their living space is cool. Use fans, air conditioning, or portable coolers. If they don’t have air conditioning, consider taking them to public places like shopping malls or community centers during peak heat hours.
- Dress appropriately: Encourage wearing light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton. Light-colored clothing can also help reflect heat.
