5 Signs of Overheating in Seniors
Here in Texas, we’re accustomed to hot weather. From a young age, Texan natives know to drink plenty of water, stay out of the heat during the hottest parts of the day, and stay in the shade. But even the best preventative measures can’t always beat Mother Nature, and heat illness can strike in moments.
Heat affects seniors differently than younger individuals. As our bodies age, seniors have a decreased capacity to adapt to changes in temperature. They may be unable to cool down as quickly, have a reduced amount of sweat, and often have chronic medical conditions that can make it more challenging to deal with hot weather.
The caregiving team at Visiting Angels Rockwall TX enjoys accompanying our senior clients outside the home when the weather allows but is trained to recognize the signs of heat illness and overheating in seniors. Here are five signs to watch for to ensure your elderly family members stay safe when the temperatures soar.
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are muscle spasms that most commonly occur in the abdomen, arms, and legs. They can happen because of dehydration and because of excessive perspiration and a loss of nutrients. Heat cramps are the mildest form of heat illness and one of the first signs something is amiss, and it may be time to move indoors and in cooler temperatures! If your loved one experiences heat cramps, offer water, sports drinks like Powerade or Gatorade, and a salty protein-packed snack, like an energy bar.
Swollen Feet and Legs
Also known as heat edema, swollen feet and ankles happen when a person gets too hot. Help your senior loved one sit with their feet propped up and get them out of the heat to help the swelling decrease. A cool towel and some water will also help.
Dizziness and Headache
Although heat cramps and swollen feet are an annoyance, they are not as critical as dizziness and headaches. These symptoms are signs of heat exhaustion - a flashing, red warning sign that it’s time to cool down! Dizziness and headaches may be accompanied by nausea, intense thirst, and rapid pulse. Heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke –a major medical emergency– so it’s important to help your senior loved one find a cool place to rest and drink fluids.
Confusion
Confusion is a significant warning sign that heatstroke may be on the horizon. If heat exhaustion progresses to heatstroke, you may notice your senior loved one adopt slurred speech, confusion, and even hallucinations. These symptoms may be hard to recognize in elderly loved ones who suffer from dementia or other memory disorders, so it’s essential to look for other symptoms coexisting, including an extremely high body temperature, headaches, or heavy sweating.
Fainting
Fainting is a dangerous sign that heatstroke will or has happened. Your senior loved one may show signs of agitation and unsteadiness before fainting. If your loved one has fainted, call 911 and get them to a cool place.
Find Your Perfect In-Home Caregiver at Visiting Angels Rockwall
People over 50 are consistently the largest population to die from heat illnesses. Many of these medical emergencies happen in their own homes when the temperatures rise. If you’re looking for a caring professional to check in on your elderly loved ones to prevent heat illnesses in the summer, call Visiting Angels Rockwall TX. Let us help you find the perfect in-home caregiver for your family!