A heat dome covering much of the Midwest is pushing temperatures into the triple digits and causing heat wave conditions. Thirteen people have reportedly died from extreme heat. Those most at risk are elderly people and children. Here are precautions for those vulnerable to heat.
Senior citizens are especially affected by heat for several reasons. Many live on a fixed income and can't afford air conditioning units. Those who live alone often lack a support network. In larger cities, like Chicago, where the heat is at its worst, seniors live in inadequate housing. Here are resources for seniors.
Elderly people who have air conditioners tend not to turn them on; they set the AC too low. Seniors chill easily; others turn the AC off in an effort to save money. My senior in-laws will swelter every year in summer rather than use the air conditioner, even in the car. Heat exhaustion creeps up on them and they don't realize it until it's too late.
Elderly people are also at risk due to health conditions and prescription drug use. Their autoimmune systems are sometimes compromised. Seniors also don't get around well. Handicapped people are also vulnerable. Seniors, especially home bound should be checked on regularly. The police can do a well-being check if there is cause for concern.
Many seniors don't drink enough water and get dehydrated. My grandfather was convinced that because coffee was made with water he was taking in liquids. Hot beverages, caffeine, soda, diet soda (which is often high in sodium), energy drinks and alcohol are worst beverages to drink in hot weather.
Gatorade is recommended as a hot weather drink, as it replaces electrolytes lost through sweating. However, Gatorade also contains sugar, artificial flavors and coloring. The best way to hydrate is with plain cool water. Too much ice water can shock the body when it's terribly hot.
Children are at special risk in hot weather. Babies and toddlers can't cool themselves. Children should never be left in a car, even for a few minutes, in the heat. They can get burned on hot metal seat belts and accessories. Hot plastic burns, too. Children should not spend too much time in a car seat, stroller or carrier without shade or room to move.
Children should be dressed in lightweight, breathable cotton clothing and comfortable shoes. Hot sand and pavement will burn the soles of the feet. They need sunscreen, umbrellas, over-sized tee-shirts, sun hats and sun glasses for sun protection.
Children should avoid the heat from noon to 3 p.m. (the hottest part of the day). Children, even older kids, do not know when they are getting overheated. Our son suffered heat exhaustion. He played at the beach all morning and then outside in the late afternoon. He was drinking plenty of fluids, but got too much sun. He was clammy, pale and lethargic. I made him sit in the bathtub, under a tepid shower. He perked up but it took a few hours for the effects to wear off.
Coaches should consider cancelling sports practices and games during a heat wave. If your child's coach doesn't cancel practice, especially one that is held in the heat of the day, don't hesitate to keep your child home. Extreme heat can be as dangerous as extreme cold.
Marilisa Kinney Sachteleben writes from 22 years parenting four children and 25 years teaching seniors, adult education and special needs.
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