As the temperature is on the rise, heat has become a major threat to our dear senior citizens. Amid rising concerns about heat stress among the elderly, experts are sharing key tips to help seniors stay cool and safe during the scorching weather.
According to Associate Professor Jason Lee Kai Wei, Head of the Center for Heat Resilience and Performance at the National University of Singapore, there is an essential but surprising way to deal with the heat: drinking cool water. It is time we bust the myths and equip our senior citizens with the necessary knowledge to protect themselves.
As we age, our bodies undergo changes that make it harder to handle high temperatures. Dr. Te Ruixin, family physician, explains, “In older individuals, less sweat is produced per sweat gland and their overall sweating rate is lower under the same heat load conditions.” In addition, reduced blood flow to the skin affects heat dissipation, making it challenging for seniors to cool down effectively.
To make matters more worrisome, certain medications and chronic diseases can increase seniors’ sensitivity to heat. Professor Lee warns, “Some drugs that are meant to treat diseases can potentially compromise their thermoregulation and lead to a higher risk of heat injury.” This means that older adults need to be extra vigilant during heatwaves, especially if they are taking any medications or have underlying health problems.
Dehydration is another serious concern for seniors during hot weather. Consultant Dr. Kuan Ling Yee highlights that “the sense of thirst decreases in older persons, and their kidneys’ ability to conserve sodium and water also declines with age.” This makes them more prone to dehydration, which can lead to confusion and lethargy. Dr. Quan stresses the importance of seniors consuming enough fluids, including soups, teas and their favorite beverages, to stay hydrated.
Experts suggest several ways to help seniors beat the heat and stay safe. First and foremost, they recommend creating a suitable physical environment for senior citizens by protecting them from direct sunlight. Additionally, sprinkling water on the skin and using a fan in dry and hot environments can effectively reduce heat stress. Recently introduced heat stress advice provides valuable guidance on adjusting outdoor activities based on heat stress levels, ensuring seniors can enjoy summer while minimizing health risks.
