Summer is Right Around the Corner – Remember to Stay Hydrated

With summer bringing hotter, steamier temperatures, it is a good time to remind everyone, especially seniors to protect themselves from dehydration, which happens when our bodies lose more fluid than it takes in. Dr. Samuel Keim, a professor and head of the department of emergency medicine at the University of Arizona, explains one of the reasons adults 70 and older are more at risk for dehydration is “a diminished thirst mechanism and a decreased ability to compensate for high-temperature environments.” He adds this means seniors are less likely to feel thirsty or realize they are becoming dehydrated.

Moreover, many seniors suffer from medical conditions such as respiratory ailments, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease exacerbating the problem. Also medications like anticholinergics or antihistamines disrupt the body’s natural reflexes and reduce its heat tolerance causing a person to sweat less. Other problematic drugs include diuretic medications that increase the amount of water and salt expelled from the body as urine or beta blockers that interfere with the body’s natural response to becoming dehydrated.  

Heat-exhaustion symptoms can include fatigue, thirst, profuse sweating, lightheadedness, cramps, nausea and weakness, and need to be addressed immediately as they can lead to heat stroke, which can be deadly. Dr. Keim says, "A heat index over 100 degrees is a high-risk environment for heat stroke." Treatment includes getting the person out of the heat into a cool location and removing heavy clothing. Spraying the person with water and directing a fan on them also helps. Seek emergency attention if the person is confused or fainting but continue to treat the person until help arrives. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a vibrant senior living community situated on an 8.8-acre campus with exceptional architecture and award-winning design.  Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors.  Please visit our website for more information regarding our community, amenities and care services as well as inquire about our Move-in Specials and availability. 

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. 

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/hot-weather-health-tips