Heatstroke is noted as a silent killer, which may be more prevalent in an age of extreme temperatures brought by global warming. In Australia, heatstroke is one of the end results of heat stress, with 473 deaths recorded from 2000 to 2018. Seniors in particular, are vulnerable to heatstroke, requiring more efforts to safeguard themselves.
What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke occurs when the human body’s temperature goes past 40.5 degrees celsius. Symptoms start at sudden increases in temperature, indicated by reddish skin, absence of sweat, and rapid pulse. It escalates to headaches and nausea right up to loss of consciousness and falling comatose. Heatstroke renders severe damage to the body from the intense heat, with the heart, kidneys, muscle and the liver as primarily affected.
Heatstroke is very prevalent in times of heatwaves, especially in recent years. The 2023 ACOSS Heat Survey tagged 36,000 deaths in Australia during heatwaves from 2006 to 2017. A joint study by KPMG and climate-resilience startup ClimaSens, meanwhile, predicted that 38 per cent of the Australian population may be seriously affected by rising temperatures over the next few decades – and possibly cost the Aussie economy $211 billion a year by 2050.
Heat Sensitivity in Seniors
Several studies have indicated that people over 65 years old are more sensitive to drastic heat changes and the illnesses triggered as a result. Their ability to regulate body temperature may not be as effective as in younger years; if they are also under medication, a medical check could reveal which drugs actually carry a side effect of the body inhibiting temperature controls, and lead to heatstroke.
Writing for Australian Pharmacist in 2018, for example, the University of Tasmania School of Medicine’s Prof Gregory Peterson MPS detailed one such episode, about a 76-year-old man who was rushed to the ER for high temperatures and pulse, and was warm to the touch. The patient had a brief seizure upon arrival, a check revealed the man already had a prior stroke and had been taking oxybutynin (used for bladder control), which was partly responsible for an earlier case where he topped 41.1C. After cooling down with ice packs and administering of sodium chloride, he was later discharged but asked not to take any more oxybutynin pending further clearance from his urologist.
Heat stress situations may be compounded in case of seniors living independently. For instance, an elderly person may have cognitive and memory lapses on dealing with increased temperatures. Living without a carer or loved one may exacerbate the situation, as there’s nobody close by to help if things get worse.
Preparing for Summer’s Heat
When expecting a heatwave on the horizon, especially during the summer holidays, there are numerous ways to prepare for it, in some cases, with help from friends and family.
Cool spots
Some places inside the house should be marked as the “cool” zones, which provide ample shade from the sun. If the property has two or more storeys, parts of the ground floor that are clear from sun exposure may be it.
Shades
Solar protection for the interior may be possible by activating curtains to block out solar radiation while keeping natural light in. Shades can also protect inner walls from sunlight.
Ventilation
Windows may be opened to let air circulate through the interior and keep the room temperature down, with electric fans adding to the circulation. An alternate option would be to activate the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system and set the thermostat to nominally colder levels. However, the HVAC should be in tiptop shape to properly cool the home, which may include cleaning the ducts for smooth airflow.
Keeping things cool
Some experts advise stocking up the fridge or freezer with cool packs; these are normally placed on the back of the neck, tucked under armpits, or on the crotch to alleviate heat. Pitchers or jugs filled with cold water also work as well for ample fluid intake and natural body cooling, you must drink even without feeling thirsty. If you have to take a bath, make sure to do cold showers.
Proper eating
What you eat may be essential to lower body temperatures. Start by eating “cold” food items like salads and fruit, in addition to liquids – but avoid tea, coffee, and alcohol.
Blackout kit
Blackout kits are vital in case of power outages; during periods of temperatures over 35C, the heat can strain the power grid. Some safety professionals claim this comprises survival items such as a first-aid pack, personal medical supplies, flashlight, lamp, spare batteries for the flashlight and lamp, and a fully-charged powerbank for your electronic gadgets.
Constant communications
Seniors living alone or even if they have companions must be in close contact with neighbours or can call emergency services at the first sign. Seniors may also be advised to consult their doctor as much as possible.
Loose clothes
Wear loose-fitting clothing made of all-natural fibres. Natural fibres enable the skin to breathe while absorbing sweat.
Watering the lawn
You may need to water the garden in the early morning, as watered greenery can aid in cool wind flow.
The A.S.A.G. Reverse Mortgage
The A.S.A.G. Reverse Mortgage can play a role in helping seniors protect themselves from the dangers of heat-related ailments, including heatstroke. Through financing, the funds can cover important home projects such as HVAC and refrigeration maintenance, installation of solar curtains and stocking of emergency supplies such as a blackout kit. They may cover emergency medical expenses as the situation arises. Some properties may call for acquiring rooftop solar units and linked to the HVAC system for continuous operation during outages.
Retirement should still be a comfortable experience when the heat is properly managed. Find a way with help from A.S.A.G. 1300 002 724 or info@asagfirst.com.au to learn more.
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