Overheating is a serious risk to seniors, especially during warmer months. The body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature with age, making older adults more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Understanding why seniors are more sensitive to overheating than other adults will help you be better prepared for the dog days of summer while caring for your senior loved ones.
Aging and Changes in Skin Sensitivity
Our skin undergoes significant changes as we age. Senior skin tends to be thinner and less oily, which impacts its ability to cool down. The sweat glands, responsible for cooling us through perspiration, also decrease in number and efficiency with age. These age-related changes make it more difficult for seniors to regulate their body temperature effectively.
Medical Conditions Impacting Senior Heat Sensitivity
Many seniors deal with medical conditions that can make them more sensitive to heat. Cardiovascular diseases can impair circulation, making it harder for the body to dissipate heat. Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves, which affects heat regulation. Some medications, like diuretics and antihistamines, can also decrease the body's ability to stay cool.
Most seniors won't realize they are overheating until it's too late. Age can sometimes dull the senses, including the ability to feel temperature changes. Many older adults may not sense that they are getting too hot. Conditions like dementia can also affect a senior's awareness of their surroundings and their body's signals, including feeling too hot.
Due to a diminished sense of thirst, seniors have a higher risk of getting dehydrated. Dehydration worsens senior overheating because the body relies on adequate fluid levels to cool itself. When dehydrated, the body cannot sweat efficiently, increasing the risk of overheating.
Preventative Measures for Caregivers
To prevent senior overheating, look for signs like flushed skin, headaches, dizziness, and rapid breathing. Check on your senior loved ones frequently during hot weather to catch the signs early.
Air conditioning and fans can help keep living spaces cool. Consider covering the windows during the hottest parts of the day. Light, loose-fitting clothes can help keep seniors cool and comfortable. Hats, sunglasses, and other sun protection are also essential when outside.
Encourage seniors to take regular sips of water throughout the day, even if they say they aren't thirsty. Keep water easily accessible to remind them to drink regularly. Foods with high water content, like fruits and vegetables, can also help keep them hydrated. Watermelon is an excellent option that most seniors will likely enjoy.
Keep Seniors Safe From the Heat With Support From Senior Helpers
Understanding why seniors are more prone to overheating can help caregivers take proactive measures against heat-related problems. If you need a helping hand caring for a senior loved one in families in West Chester, Coatesville, Downingtown, Kennett Square, or Exton this summer and beyond, we can help. Senior Helpers Exton provides professional in-home senior care, including personal care, companionship, assistance with daily living activities, and more this summer and beyond. Contact us to learn more about our senior care services!