A representative from Newsome Home Health will present a seminar titled “Sun and Medication” at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug.13, at The Timbers of Shorewood, 1100 N. River Rd., Shorewood.
Everyone enjoys a warm sunny day. However, when the temperature climbs, it could pose a potential risk for seniors. Of the 200 Americans who die of heat-related complications each summer, most are over 50.
As seniors age, they become less sensitive to heat and the feeling of thirst. According to the American Geriatric Society’s Foundation for Health in Aging (FHIA), when the temperature hits the low 90s, it can be very dangerous to senior citizens.
Seniors are susceptible to intense heat because their bodies may be less efficient than younger adults to adequately respond to rising temperatures. Also, seniors are more likely to have medical conditions that change normal body responses to heat and they are more likely to take prescription medicines that may weaken the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or prevent perspiration.
Signs of possible heat illness in seniors include:
• heavy sweating
• paleness
• muscle cramps
• fatigue
• weakness
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea or vomiting
• fainting
• fast and weak pulse rate
• fast and shallow breathing
It is important for seniors to stay indoors with air conditioning during excessive heat; fans are not sufficient. To help cool down, take cool showers, baths or sponge baths. If outside, avoid the sun as much as possible and wear hats, sunglasses and lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. In addition, use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and avoid strenuous activity.
Some medications whose side effects include loss of fluid and electrolytes from the body can prove to be dangerous, and diurects, antibiotics and other medications can slow down the body’s natural capacity to control body temperature. Anyone taking medications should consult with a doctor about the possible side effects due to excessive heat before sun exposure.
Newsome Home Health offers nursing, social work, aides and physical, occupational and speech therapy services at the Oak Park Arms.
The Timbers of Shorewood is a rental retirement community which provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay - a weekend, a week, a month or longer.
The event is open to the public and admission is free. For more information, call Shelly Goggins at 815-609-0669 or visit the Timbers of Shorewood website.
