There is no denying that climate change is our new reality, with heat extremes breaking records. According to global records, 2023 was our warmest year since 1850. The rate of warming since 1982 has risen more than three times. By 2050, global warming is expected to increase by 1.5 degrees Celsius and two to four degrees Celsius by 2100. This variance might not seem that great to most, but even minimal temperature increases can affect our weather patterns and disrupt ecosystems.
Effects on the elderly
Heat extremes will impact people, the economy, and various cultures. For the elderly, in particular, warming temperatures can be devastating, putting their health at risk. We need to protect our elderly now that they are living longer.
Older adults can have difficulty regulating body temperature during heat extremes. Seniors may not adjust well to drastic changes in temperature. Their bodies’ response to temperature changes can be affected by chronic medical conditions and prescription medicines that may alter the body’s ability to adjust or to sweat.
Heat-related health risks
Heat syncope (sudden dizziness), may occur if you are active in hot weather or are on heart medication. In this instance, you need to take precautions with cooling strategies like running an air conditioner or going to a cooling center nearby. Drink plenty of water.
Heat edema can occur in which your feet or ankles swell. Blood vessels dilate in extreme heat, meaning body fluids move to these areas by the force of gravity. The amount of salt in your body can also cause edema if levels are increased.
Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms when your body becomes too hot. These spasms represent heat exhaustion. These spasms may occur in the abdomen, arms, feet, and shoulders. Your skin may feel clammy and cool.
Engage in gentle range-of-motion (ROM) stretching—yoga is good—and gently massage these areas of your body.
Try to keep the affected areas dry, apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion, or use antihistamines. Avoid baby powders and scented lotions, especially those containing petroleum or mineral oils, which may create more clogging of pores.
Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises about 40 degrees Celsius and is a medical emergency. Your pulse may be rapid or weak. Move yourself to a cooler area, or have a cool shower, and wear loose clothing.
Air quality and the elderly
Older adults, especially those at special risk, should stay indoors during heat extremes, especially when there is an air pollution alert in effect. They are more vulnerable to climate change impacts on health.
These adults may have preexisting health conditions, making them prone to the effects of and more sensitive to air pollution. Those who have a heart condition, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, or obesity, for example, may be at risk for heart attacks.
Some medications alter the body’s ability to react to heat, so these adults are more at risk for illnesses derived from heat extremes, and sadly even death.
Older adults may reside in living conditions—lacking proper ventilation and air conditioning—that do not enable them to cope with heat extremes, especially in urban regions where “heat islands” enable temperatures to be even higher.
Depending on others for assistance and relying on medical care in their daily lives may present a problem for older adults who do not have the available resources. Family and friends should check on this age group often during heat extremes since they may not be aware that they are hot or dehydrated.
Prevention of heat-related illnesses
- Stay indoors in air-conditioned homes as much as possible and do not rely on fans for cooling.
- Stay well hydrated with plenty of water.
- Avoid the use of stoves or ovens.
- Wear loose, light-coloured clothing
- Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
- Try to get plenty of rest while limiting or not engaging in strenuous outdoor activities.
The promotion of public resources and a vibrant social resource system, as well as the reduction of social stigma and inequality, may help mitigate the risk of heat extremes to older adults.
The elderly deserve our respect and their dignity. Some in this age group are what made life as we know it today possible.