Cooling Tips and Centers Help Older
Adults Beat The Heat
All Lucas County Senior Centers remain
available as Emergency Cooling Stations today.
These air conditioned facilities can offer seniors some
relief from the oppressive heat and humidity.
Because the Heat Index reached over 90
degrees last week, the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern
Ohio, Inc. once again cautions older persons that they are
most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and that that
these extreme conditions pose a significant threat to their
health, especially to those who have cardiac or respiratory
problems.
In contrast to violent weather events that
cause extensive physical destruction, the hazards of extreme
heat are dramatically less apparent, especially at the
onset. In fact, similar weather conditions in Chicago in
1995 led to heat-related deaths of over 750 people, most of
whom were seniors. We remind the community to check on
older or disabled family members or neighbors who live alone
or may be experiencing problems coping with the heat.
Ways to reduce the risk of heat-related
illness
-
Plan any
outside activities for the coolest times of the day –
before noon and in the evening
-
Stay in
cool places such as shopping malls, libraries or a
Cooling Center
-
Avoid
caffeine and alcoholic beverages - they accelerate the
effects of heat exhaustion
-
Avoid
heavy meals. Choose lighter meals & cooler foods –
salads, sandwiches, fruit etc.
-
Since
aging can cause decreased thirst sensation, older adults
should drink water, natural juices or other fruit drinks
throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
Note:
If on a special fluid-restricted
diet or taking diuretics, consult your physician about fluid
intake during hot weather
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
Headache, sluggishness or fatigue, thirst,
blurred vision, nausea or upset stomach, vomiting, profuse
sweating, moderate increase in body temperature
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