Risk of heat stroke in the elderly
Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect - October 24, 2024 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates
A new study from the Harvard School of Public Health found that even a 1.8-degree Fahrenheit increase in temperature during the summer can increase death rates for elderly people with chronic health conditions. One health risk posed to the elderly due to rising temperatures is heat stroke.
Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot control its temperature: it rises rapidly, loses its ability to sweat, and cannot cool down. Body temperatures can rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. It is essential that nursing homes understand the risks heat stroke poses and take measures to prevent heat stroke in elderly residents and others under their care. If a nursing home has failed to protect your loved one, reach out for help from a Chicago nursing home abuse lawyer from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates.
Why are the elderly more susceptible to heat stroke?
A strong central nervous system is what allows the body to manage extreme heat situations. According to the Mayo Clinic, the central nervous system begins deteriorating in adults over age 65, making it harder for this group to cope with extreme heat and changes in body temperature.
Further, dehydration contributes to heat stroke, and older adults are less likely to keep themselves hydrated.
Chronic illness is another risk factor for heat stroke, and older adults have a higher incidence of heart and lung disease and other conditions than younger people. Problems with mobility are also common among the older population. Sendentariness and obesity (which often results from lack of movement) both contribute to heat stroke.
The elderly are often at a high risk of heat stroke because they take medications that can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. The elderly are simply not as adaptable to changes in the weather.
Recognizing symptoms of heat stroke
Symptoms of heat stroke show in the victim’s physical and mental conditions. Those suffering may have hot, dry skin, sweat excessively, and/or have a rapid pulse. They may show signs of confusion or delirium, behave irrationally, or slur their words. Victims may also experience seizures or lose consciousness.
Heat stroke causes internal damage as well. The brain, heart, and kidneys can swell, leading to permanent damage. Additionally, heat stroke can cause muscle damage through Rhabdomyolysis, a medical condition leading to the “rapid breakdown, rupture, and death of muscle.” Ultimately, the dead muscle tissue is released into the bloodstream, causing further damage to the kidneys and prompting heart rhythm irregularities.
Without prompt medical treatment, heat stroke can cause severe and permanent physical and cognitive disability or result in death. If you see someone suffering from heat stroke, call 911. As you wait for help to arrive, take measures to cool the victim down. The Mayo Clinic advises getting them indoors or into a shady area, taking off their excess clothing, and spraying them with a hose, shower, ice packs, or a cool-mist fan, or applying wet towels to their head and neck, armpits, and groin.
How to prevent heat stroke
During the summer months, families must take steps to prevent the risk of heat stroke among the elderly:
- Drink liquids – The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake for men is roughly 13 cups a day and an average of 9 cups daily for women. This amount varies, so always consult your doctor about his or her recommendation for liquid intake. Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, or sugary drinks because these tend to dehydrate the body.
- Wear lightweight clothing—Because heat stroke occurs when the body cannot cool itself down, wearing dark, heavy clothing will only speed up this process. Wear hats sunscreen, and stay in the shade, as well as lighter alternatives to long sleeves and pants if you need to keep the sun off your skin.
- Rest indoors – The elderly should try to remain indoors during the warmest part of the day, generally between 3:00 and 6:00 PM.
- Take a cool shower—After being outdoors, stepping into a cold shower may help bring down the body temperature of an elderly person quickly. Placing ice on the back of the neck and wrists may also help cool down the body.
- Do not overexert yourself – The summer months are a time to enjoy the outdoors, but they are also a time to be conscious of body signals.
If you have elderly neighbors or relatives, protect them from heat-related stress by watching for signs of heat stroke. Visit them throughout the day and monitor their skin color and energy level. If they are unable to transport themselves, take them to air-conditioned facilities. Know the signs of heat stroke so you can recognize it if it happens to you or a loved one.
We are here to help
Do you still have questions? Contact a Chicago nursing home abuse lawyer at Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates today. Just call (800) 985-1819 or send us a message. Your loved one’s well-being matters to us. If the facility in charge of their care is not honoring the duty to keep your loved one safe from heat stroke or other dangers, we will work with you to hold them accountable.
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