Have you noticed how freakin’ hot it is nowadays?.. FYI, this crazy, mean weather is not limited to America alone as it is reported that summer ‘round the globe just got crazier than ever! Everywhere, summer heat temperature records got broken, take for example the amazing 93 degrees in Astoria last Wednesday.
However, these numbers not only represent a problem our environment is currently facing but also its potentially fatal consequences in terms of human health. I would like to put emphasis on seniors’ health in particular. We all know how vulnerable seniors can get since we are constantly reminded by our health care providers to always protect ourselves from it. For seniors, such extreme temperature could mean a trip down to some hospital’s emergency room!
Heat related health conditions are scary since they vary greatly in degree. They can be just a slight discomfort or trigger an existing health condition resulting to death. They can be ever so slow or kill in just a blink of an eye. These factors make it more alarming for seniors especially those living independently. If you suspect that your senior neighbor might be suffering from extreme heat, please do take the liberty to get them out of the heat even for just a while or call an organization for assistance if you wish not to get involved.
Worst case scenario would be heat stroke as it can fatal for seniors. Sufferers usually experience sudden death at first attack. Common symptoms of heat stroke are: high body temperature, difficult in breathing, confusion, rapid pulse rate and lack of sweating. Its “warning” condition would be heat exhaustion which is considered as heat stroke’s precursor. A senior who is experiencing heat exhaustion is most likely to feel dizzy and nauseas. There would be heavy sweating and rapid pulse. If you start feeling this way, you must seek help as soon as possible.
There are ways to prevent heat related health conditions from affecting you. Here are some suggestions to help seniors protect themselves from the summer heat:
•    Choose appropriate dresses to wear during summer. As much as possible, you would want your body to breathe and never to constrict it. Try loose fitting clothes and cooling garments to keep your body at its comfortable temperature.
•    Drink plenty of liquids, preferably water and avoid diuretics. As common sense has it, you need your body hydrated at all times—especially during summer months.
•    Stay at cooler places, most recommended are air-conditioned and shaded places. You don’t even have to spend on electricity, you can hang out at the mall or visit community centers.
•    Be aware of common symptoms for heat-related condition. As soon as you feel them, seek help at once. It’s okay to cry wolf, as long as it will save your life!