Heat Stroke Long-Term Effects: What Seniors at The Palms Should Know
According to AccuWeather, Californian residents should expect a hotter-than-normal summer season in the upcoming months. That means high heat, severe weather, and the potential for intense wildfires.
Seniors in La Mirada, CA, should stay especially careful during the summer, as that's when the sun makes the most impact. It's all too easy for a person to find themselves overheated and dehydrated. This threat is even more present for people who like to do yardwork or go for long hikes.
Here's what you should know about heat stroke long-term effects and how to prevent them.
Understanding Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body's core temperature rises above 104 degrees Fahrenheit due to prolonged exposure to hot environments. It most often happens to people who spend too much time outside without cooling off.
For seniors, age-related changes in the body can make it harder to regulate body temperature. Some of those changes include:
- Reduced sweat gland activity
- Slower circulation
- Impaired thirst mechanisms
- Thinner skin
As a result, older adults are more susceptible to overheating risks than younger people. Senior summer safety means understanding your limits and preparing for the summer heat appropriately.
The Immediate Dangers of Heat Stroke
Seniors should remain active in their old age. It helps them stay physically fit and can help with their emotional and mental health. However, that doesn't mean they can do so as they please during the hottest months of the year.
If you're ever in a situation where you're faced with extreme heat, it's important to know the immediate signs of heat stroke. Warning signs include:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hot and dry skin
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or disorientation
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Overheating risks causing permanent damage to your body if left untreated. The second you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to find a way to get out of the sun and cool yourself off.
Heat Stroke Long-Term Effects
Many people recover from heat stroke with appropriate medical care. However, seniors often face lasting complications due to their age and overall health status. Understanding these long-term effects can help you understand the risks they face from careless overexposure to the elements.
Neurological Damage
One of the most concerning long-term effects of heat stroke is brain damage. High body temperatures can lead to swelling in the brain. This can cause:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings or depression
- Loss of motor coordination
- Increased risk of dementia-like symptoms
Seniors already at risk of cognitive decline do not want to risk speeding up that process. It's especially dangerous since your brain does not recover the same as the rest of your body. Any situation that can affect brain health should be avoided.
Kidney Problems
Heat stroke can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, sometimes causing acute kidney injury (AKI). This can lead to chronic kidney disease if not treated properly.
Seniors with pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes are especially vulnerable to long-term kidney complications.
Heart Strain
The cardiovascular system works overtime to cool the body during extreme heat. Aging adults with heart disease or a history of cardiac issues cannot always handle that extra strain.
Heat stroke can lead to arrhythmias, weakened heart muscles, and long-term cardiovascular stress.
Arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to dizziness, fainting, and shortness of breath. A severe case can lead to heart failure and even stroke.
If the heart is weakened due to heat stroke, you can expect it to struggle with the simplest of tasks. These complications can impact mobility, energy levels, and overall life expectancy.
Muscle and Liver Damage
Heat stroke often triggers a breakdown of muscle fibers, otherwise known as rhabdomyolysis. This process releases harmful proteins into the bloodstream. These proteins can damage the liver and kidneys, causing long-term fatigue and weakness.
California Heat Safety Tips
Seniors will need a comprehensive heat safety plan to reduce the likelihood of heat stroke. It's up to the caregivers to double-check everything before they head to any kind of outing.
First, older adults should stay hydrated at all times. Encourage fluid intake throughout the day, whether it's through water or hydrating fruits like watermelon.
Second, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours. If going outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-colored clothing. SPF does wonders for protecting your skin.
Finally, use indoor cooling when you can. All residents should have access to air conditioning or cooling fans. Your community should conduct regular HVAC maintenance during extreme heat events.
Post Heat-Stroke Care
If a senior experiences heat stroke, the recovery process is just as critical as the initial treatment. Recovery can take weeks or months and requires a healthcare professional's guidance.
Seniors showing signs of memory loss or confusion may need cognitive therapy to help rebuild brain function. Weakness and muscle pain are addressed with a physical therapist.
Follow-up lab work may be necessary to ensure that the organs were not negatively affected by the heat stroke. Seniors should report any unusual fatigue or changes in urination to their doctor.
Long-term health improvements can make a lasting difference. It's important for them to learn better hydration habits and heat-aware scheduling.
The next time a senior goes out, they can prepare by bringing cooling aids and applying sunscreen every two hours. Some medications increase heat sensitivity, so they should ask their doctor to review prescriptions for that risk.
Following these recovery tips for aging adults is key to preventing lasting damage.
Stay Safe In the Summer Sun
Heat stroke long-term effects are easily avoided by staying conscious of your body and taking precautions. Drink plenty of water, don't wear anything too heavy, and try to stay in the shade. It's up to community staff and caregivers to keep a close eye on their seniors so they don't suffer serious damage.
The Palms La Mirada is a pet-friendly senior living community that offers an independent lifestyle with a wide variety of amenities, such as a fitness center and a library. Residents gain access to customized living spaces and a lively community. Reach out today with any questions and to schedule a tour.