July 13, 2006

To the Editor:

Hot weather can be risky for everyone, but for the elderly it can be fatal.  Seniors are particularly susceptible to complications from hot weather because of decreased awareness of heat exhaustion and heat stroke due to age. 

The Illinois Council on Long Term Care, an association of nursing home professionals, suggests several tips to safeguard elderly parents and grandparents from extreme heat.

·         Use an air conditioner to keep rooms cool. If air conditioning is unavailable, open windows on opposite ends of the house or building to cross-ventilate and increase air flow. Additionally, move seniors to the coolest area of the house or building.

·         Regularly attend to individuals who are most at risk for heat-related illnesses, including elderly with heart, circulatory and pulmonary conditions. Many medicines, including those used for heart conditions, depression and allergies, also can make a person more susceptible to heat stress.

·         Encourage seniors to drink more fluids. Because of decreased thirst awareness, seniors do not always know when they need fluid.  They should drink on a regular basis rather than only when they are thirsty.

·         Ensure the elderly are wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that allows the body to release heat.

·         Shade windows exposed to direct sunlight.

·         Keep an eye out for seniors with signs of discomfort.

We must all work together to protect our family members and friends this summer.  Prevention is the key to ensuring the welfare and safety for thousands of elderly throughout Illinois. 

Terrence Sullivan
Executive Director
Illinois Council on Long Term Care
773-478-6613