As summer arrives in Central Virginia, many of us welcome the warmth and sunshine. But for older adults, rising temperatures can bring serious health risks that are often underestimated. Whether living independently or with family, seniors are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, and taking simple, proactive steps can help prevent emergencies.
“Older adults don’t cool down as efficiently as younger people, and they may not always recognize signs of dehydration or overheating,” says Dr. Amy Paul, the director for statewide graduate medical education at Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority and the founder of the Virginia Mind and Memory Institute. “When you add mobility limitations or chronic conditions into the mix, it becomes even more important to be intentional about summer safety.”
Why Heat Affects Seniors Differently
As we age, our bodies become less effective at regulating temperature. Sweat glands may not function as well, and blood circulation can slow down, making it harder to release heat through the skin. Medications for blood pressure, heart disease, or depression can also affect how the body responds to heat or conserves water.
In addition, some seniors may not feel thirsty until they are already dehydrated. If mobility is a concern, they may also avoid getting up frequently for water or may not have easy access to cool environments during the hottest parts of the day.
Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can come on quickly, especially for older adults. Warning signs include:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Muscle cramps
- Excessive sweating or skin that is hot and dry
- Confusion, agitation, or disorientation
- Weak pulse or rapid heartbeat
- Nausea or headache
If you observe any of these symptoms in a senior, especially during hot weather, seek medical attention immediately. “It is important to go to the emergency room, in particular, if a senior is showing any sign of confusion, agitation, disorientation, slurred speech, or any other change in their behavior as this may be signs of a heat stroke,” says Dr. Kathryn Mutter, M.D., an associate professor of emergency medicine at The University of Virginia School of Medicine and the chief education officer at care management platform Alula. “The emergency room has advanced methods to help a person cool down quickly and perform rapid testing that may be lifesaving,” she says.
Easy, Practical Ways to Help
The good news is that there are many simple ways to help protect older loved ones during the summer. Small efforts from family, friends, and neighbors can go a long way in keeping seniors safe and comfortable.
- Check in regularly.
Daily check-ins (ideally twice a day during heat waves) can help monitor how a loved one is doing and catch early signs of distress. This could be a quick phone call, text, or in-person visit.
- Create a cool space.
Help ensure the home stays cool by using fans, window coverings, and air conditioning when available. Encourage them to use at least one cool space in the home as a designated retreat during peak heat hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Public places like libraries, senior centers, or community recreation facilities can also offer a cool environment and a change of scenery.
- Use cooling strategies.
Simple tools like a cool washcloth on the neck or wrists can help lower body temperature. Lightweight, breathable clothing and staying in shaded areas when outside are also helpful strategies. For those who enjoy being outdoors, early mornings and late evenings are the safest times to be outside.
- Limit outings during peak heat.
Medical appointments or errands should ideally be scheduled during cooler parts of the day. If outings are necessary, try to park in shaded areas and keep the car air-conditioned before and during the ride.
- Encourage hydration.
Even if a senior isn’t feeling thirsty, regular sips of water throughout the day are essential. A reusable water bottle should be a regular companion to help them stay hydrated. Offering flavored water, herbal tea, or fruit with high water content (like watermelon or cucumbers) can be helpful alternatives. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate, is also important.
Summer Safety Takes a Village
Keeping seniors safe in the heat is a shared responsibility. Friends, family members, neighbors, and community organizations all play a role. For caregivers, it’s important to be proactive and not wait until there’s a problem. “Older adults deserve to feel safe, comfortable, and cared for, no matter the season,” says Paul. “With a little planning and a lot of compassion, we can make that happen.”
