Elderly Heat Exhaustion: Signs and Symptoms

The weather is getting warmer and that means the chance of heat exhaustion is getting higher. When it comes to elderly and the heat, there are some things to keep in mind. In this post, we’ll take a look at the relationship between heat and the elderly.

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What Is the Normal Body Temperature for Elderly?

As we age, our average body temperature changes over time. It usually rises from childhood into adulthood and then dips during later years in life. For people over the age of 65, the typical body temperature is between 96.4 F (35.8 C) and 98.5 F (36.9 C).

Why Would an Older Adult Feel Hot All the Time?

An elderly person feeling hot all the time can be for a variety of reasons. These include:

• Dehydration. Aging increases the risk of dehydration, which limits the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating.
• Medications. Drugs commonly used by older adults — like diuretics, psychiatric meds, and those for blood pressure — can interfere with internal temperature control.
• Health conditions. Chronic illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes can weaken the body’s ability to manage heat.
• Infection. In seniors, even mild infections may disrupt temperature balance and cause sensations of heat without an actual fever.
• Thyroid issues. An overactive thyroid speeds up metabolism, which can result in a persistent feeling of being overheated.
• Hormonal changes. Shifts in hormone levels, especially in postmenopausal women, may trigger hot flashes and increased heat sensitivity.
• Decreased blood circulation. Reduced circulation can make it harder for the body to maintain a steady internal temperature.
• Autonomic nervous system changes. Aging may impair the autonomic nervous system, which plays a central role in controlling body temperature.

Now that we know more about elderly and heat, let’s take a look at symptoms of heat exhaustion in elderly.

What Are Symptoms Heat Exhaustion in Elderly?

Heat exhaustion in elderly can manifest in a variety of ways. Signs of heat exhaustion in elderly include:

• Cool, moist skin
• Dizzy spells
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Heavy sweating
• Low blood pressure upon standing
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Weak, rapid pulse

Now that we know more about heat and old age, let’s take a look at how to prevent heat exhaustion.

How Do You Prevent Elderly Heat Exhaustion?

When it comes to seniors and heat, there are a few ways older adults can keep safe. Below are a few tips.

• Be aware of heat sensitivity in older adults. Older people may be more vulnerable to heat and humidity, and even moderate temperatures can pose a risk.
• Drink plenty of liquids. Water, fruit or vegetable juices, and drinks with electrolytes help keep you hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If your doctor limits your fluid intake, ask what to do during very hot weather.
• Check your medications. Ask your doctor whether any medications you take can increase your risk of heat-related illness or sunburn.
• Dress appropriately for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Cotton and other natural fabrics may be more comfortable than synthetics.
• Use sun protection. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, and reapply it regularly if you’re in the sun. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing. If you get sunburned, stay out of the sun until healed, and soothe your skin with cool cloths and moisturizers.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Do not exercise or engage in heavy physical activity outside when it is very hot. Try to stay active in air-conditioned spaces instead.
• Limit time outdoors. If you must go outside, keep outings short and avoid crowded or high-traffic areas. Try to plan trips during cooler times of the day and outside of rush hour.
• Keep your home as cool as possible. If you don’t have air conditioning or fans, limit oven use, close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day, and open windows at night to improve airflow.
• Spend time in air-conditioned places. If your home is hot, go to locations like malls, libraries, senior centers, or a friend’s house. You can also contact your local health department to find out if cooling shelters are available.
• Seek assistance to reach a cooler location. Ask a friend or relative for help, or check with religious organizations, senior centers, or Area Agencies on Aging. You might also consider taxis, ride services, or local government senior transportation programs. Avoid waiting in the heat for a bus.

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