Tips for Older Adults to Combat Heat-Related Illness Tips for Older Adults to Combat Heat-Related Illness
National Insitute on Aging

NIH tips for older adults to combat heat-related illnesses





Pre-existing diseases such as congestive heart failure, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Decreased ability to move around Dementia or cognitive impairment Certain medications that may cause dehydration or that may affect the responses to heat by the heart, blood vessels or sweat glands Being substantially overweight Drinking alcoholic beverages Being dehydrated Age-related changes in the skin, such as decreased functioning of small blood vessels and sweat glands




Move them into an air conditioned or other cool place Urge them to lie down and rest Remove or loosen tight-fitting or heavy clothing Encourage them to drink water or juices if they are able to drink without choking, but avoid alcohol and caffeine Apply cold water, ice packs or cold wet cloths to the skin Get medical assistance as soon as possible