Heat and Health
In an average summer in the U.S., about 1500 people die from excesssive heat events. Excessive heat may disproportionately affect people in cities, where paved roads, buildings, and other “hard” surfaces absorb and trap heat from the sun. This “urban heat island effect” means that cities do not cool down at night like rural areas do, offering less relief from high temperatures during the nighttime hours.
Viewer Tip: Older adults are at increased risk for developing heat-related illnesses. As we age, our body’s cooling mechanism doesn’t work as efficiently, and living alone or being confined to a bed can further increase vulnerability to high temperatures. Individuals without air conditioning who live on top floors of buildings are likely to be exposed to excessive heat, and certain medications and medical conditions can increase risk. Keep these simple tips in mind to cope with the heat:
- Air conditioning is one of the best protectors against heat-related illnesses – just a few hours per day in A/C can reduce risk of illness. If your home does not have air conditioning, visit a senior center, movie theater, library, mall, or a designated community cooling center.
- A fan may provide some relief, but when temperatures reach the high 90′s, electric fans do not prevent heat-related illness.
- Wear light-weight, loose clothing that is light in color. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or lots of sugar, which can cause dehydration.
- If you have a family member, friend, or neighbor who is at risk, visit them at least twice per day. If you see signs of heat-related illness – confusion, hot and dry skin, hallucinations, or aggression – seek help immediately.
Season: Summer
(Sources: US EPA. October 2007. “It’s Too Darn Hot – Planning for Excessive Heat Events.” Publication number: EPA 100-F-07-025, www.epa.gov/aging)
