Staying Safe in Hot Weather

Heat waves are becoming more common in many parts of the country. Older adults can be more vulnerable to heat-related illness for several reasons: the body may not adjust to temperature changes as quickly, the sense of thirst may be weaker, and some health conditions and medications can affect how the body handles heat.

Plan ahead for hot weather

• Check that your air conditioner works before summer begins, and have it serviced if needed.
• Know where to go. Find air-conditioned places nearby, such as libraries, shopping malls, senior centers or community cooling centers.
• Sign up for weather alerts from your local news or weather service.
• Ask your doctor whether any of your medications or health conditions increase your risk in the heat, and whether you should adjust fluid intake.
• Arrange for someone to check on you during heat waves, especially if you live alone.

Staying cool

• Stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible during the hottest part of the day.
• Fans alone may not be enough during extreme heat. Use them along with air conditioning, or go to a cooling center.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Wear lightweight, loose, light-colored clothing.
• Close curtains or blinds on sunny windows.
• Avoid using the oven on hot days.
• Limit outdoor activity to early morning or evening, and rest often in the shade.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen outdoors.

Drink enough fluids

• Drink water regularly, even before you feel thirsty, unless your doctor has told you to limit fluids.
• Avoid alcohol and large amounts of caffeine and sugary drinks.
• Eat lighter meals with water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

Know the warning signs

Heat exhaustion may cause:

• Heavy sweating
• Cool, pale, clammy skin
• Weakness, dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Headache
• Fast, weak pulse

What to do: Move to a cool place, loosen clothing, apply cool, wet cloths and sip water. Get medical help if symptoms get worse, last longer than an hour or if you are vomiting.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs may include:

• High body temperature
• Hot, red, dry or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache, dizziness or nausea
• Confusion or loss of consciousness

What to do: Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place and use cool cloths or a cool bath to lower their temperature. Do not give fluids to someone who is confused or unconscious.

Help with cooling costs

If air conditioning costs are a concern, ask your utility company about assistance programs and budget billing. Some communities provide fans or air conditioners to eligible older adults, and energy assistance programs may help with cooling bills where funding is available. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.

Check on others

During heat waves, check on older neighbors, friends and family members at least twice a day, especially those who live alone or have health conditions.