Now that the summer weather is here you should know what the symptoms of heatstroke in seniors are. If your mom or dad is living alone and you can’t be with them every day they should have in-home care services. That way someone will be in the house with them to make sure they stay cool.
The heat impacts seniors differently because seniors have a harder time than younger people regulating their body temperature. Seniors often don’t recognize that they are getting warmer and may not realize that they are experiencing symptoms of heat stroke.
If you’re with your senior parent on a hot day make sure that you’re watching for these common symptoms of heatstroke in seniors. And make sure that if you can’t be there your mom or dad has in-home care.
High Body Temperature
A core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is a key indicator of heat stroke. It’s a good idea to keep a thermometer handy and regularly check your mom or dad’s temperature when the weather is hot. By checking their temperature often you will be able to spot any increase in their body temperature quickly.
Altered Mental State or Behaviors
Seniors may experience confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures, or even coma due to heat stroke. If your senior parent doesn’t have a condition like Alzheimer’s or any type of dementia and they seem to be confused or in an altered state call for medical help right away.
Flushed Skin
Flushed skin is a strong indicator of heat-related illness. Your mom or dad’s skin may appear red, hot, and dry to the touch. Unlike heat exhaustion, where sweating is profuse, sweating may stop during heat stroke. So if your senior parent isn’t sweating when it’s very warm and humid that could indicate they need medical help.
Rapid and Shallow Breathing
Breathing may become fast and shallow as the body attempts to cool down and compensate for the heat stress. If your senior parent has allergies, asthma, COPD, or lung cancer they may experience trouble breathing just because of the heat. But anytime your mom or dad is experiencing shortness of breath or trouble breathing it’s a good idea to get them medical help.
Rapid Heartbeat
The heart rate can increase significantly, resulting in a pounding or racing pulse as the body tries to cope with the elevated temperature. If your mom or dad has a fitness tracker that tracks their steps and heart beat that’s a great tool to use to keep an eye on their heart rate.
Nausea and Vomiting
Seniors experiencing heat stroke may feel nauseated and may vomit, which can further contribute to dehydration and worsen the condition. If your mom or dad is feeling sick don’t have them gulp down cold water. Sipping room-temperature water will help more. Avoid soft drinks like ginger ale. Sugar-free electrolyte drinks or sports drinks can also help with nausea and vomiting by balancing your senior parent’s electrolytes.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services in Quincy MA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Care Resolutions, Inc. today. (508) 906-5572
CARE Resolutions, Inc. provides quality 24-Hour Home Care for seniors and families in Walpole, Dover, Wellesley, Framingham, Norfolk, Quincy, Weston, Medfield, Boston, Sherborn MA, and surrounding areas.
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