Seniors More Prone to Heat Stress

Although living in the Sunshine State means being able to enjoy warm weather and sunny days almost year-round, residents of Florida know that spending the summer here isn’t always easy. As beautiful as summer may be, the heat it brings is not something to be taken lightly.

According to the National Weather Service, heat causes more deaths per year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined, making it the number one weather related killer in the United States. 

Of even more concern is a report from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that states that seniors are more prone to heat stress than younger people. That puts Largo's 34 percent of seniors 60 and over, based on the U.S. Census 2005-2009 American Community Survey, in the danger zone. Summer heat index values averaging 98 seniors need to take extra precaution to avoid heat related discomfort or a heat stroke.

Seniors don’t adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature and they’re more likely to take prescription medications that inhibit perspiration or make regulating body temperature difficult.

With this information in mind, there are some easy things seniors should do to protect themselves during these hot Southern summers. 

• First, understand that the sun radiates harmful ultraviolet rays more at certain times of the day than others, so it’s always a good idea to avoid excessive sun exposure between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• When getting dressed in the morning, choose lightweight and light colored garments, including loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants and wide-brimmed hats – important suggestions both for comfort and for protection from the sun’s harmful rays.  
• Sunglasses can be helpful in protecting eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, so look for a brand that filters at least 90 percent of UV rays. 
• Always remember to apply sunscreen to exposed areas before going outside, applying approximately 20 minutes before going outdoors, if possible, and reapplying frequently.  Using an UVA/UVB SPF of 15 or higher is recommended to prevent skin damage.
• It’s possible to become dehydrated without feeling thirsty, so drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic and non caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.  If dizziness, weakness, nausea or a increased pulse rate occur, move to the shade, sit down and watch these symptoms carefully. Call for medical assistance immediately if symptoms don’t improve.

Summertime in Florida doesn’t have to mean staying indoors all day. It’s certainly possible to enjoy the summer by taking these precautions.  And it’s always wise to check with a physician for additional advice.