Solera CERT Cadre
With summer just around the corner, staying hydrated
is more important than ever, especially during heatwaves.
The reason for this is simple: Dehydration diminishes
your ability to regulate temperature, and thus, your risk
of developing a heat illness rises dramatically.
Heat illnesses are of special concern for older adults
who are much more affected by summer heat. For instance,
from 1999-2009, roughly 40 percent of all heat-related deaths
in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were
adults over 65 years old.
As we age, our bodies become
less efficient at regulating
temperature for a couple of
reasons. Seniors over 65 don't
sweat as much as younger
adults, which unfortunately
is one of the body's most
important heat-regulation mechanisms. Also, seniors store fat differently,
which complicates heat-regulation in the body further.
Why's this serious? Well, as the temperature rises, so too does your
internal body temperature, especially when you're exposed directly to
the sun or extremely hot environments. This is why seniors suffer from
heatstroke more often than younger people throughout the summer.
BEAT THE HEAT • For Seniors By Seniors
Take responsibility to protect your life! Prepare NOW for a sudden emergency
8 | LIFE IN SOLERA | JUNE 2023 |
ere is a variety of lifestyle and health factors that
increase the risk of developing a heat-related illness:
• Dehydration
• Chronic illnesses (heart and kidney diseases; blood
circulation conditions)
• Prescription medications that reduce sweating
• Salt-restricted diets
• Overdressing
• Lack of airflow or access to air-conditioning
How can I lower my risk?
• Dress for the weather. Some people find natural fabrics,
such as cotton, to be cooler than synthetic fibers.
• Don't try to exercise or do a lot of activities outdoors
when it's hot.
• Avoid crowded places when it's hot outside. Plan trips
during non-rush-hour times.
• Drink plenty of liquids, such as water or fruit, or
vegetable juices. Stay away from drinks containing
alcohol or caffeine. If your doctor has told you to limit
your liquids, ask what you should do when it is very hot.
Ray C. Gayton-Jacob, coordinator for the City of Beaumont
CERT program at Solera. https://www.solera-cert.info
