The summer heat It may be tough on anyone’s body and mind, but it has a high interest for the elderly.
Extreme heat can speed up.”Biological Aging“In older adults, a recent study published in the journal Science Advances raises concerns about the long-term health impacts.
Dr. Macy P. Smith, a licensed social worker and gerontologist based in South Carolina, put a strong emphasis on the relationship between fever and aging in an interview with Fox News Digital. (See the video at the top of this article.)
“I’m a cardiologist – here’s how summer heat can hurt your heart.”
Elderly people run the risk of becoming dehydrated. This, coupled with extreme heat, could be a “disaster recipe” that includes events such as heat stroke, she said.
“Dehydration is one of the most common reasons why our seniors are hospitalized,” Smith added.
In many cases, the elderly are not Drink plenty of water They want to avoid frequent urination, so Smith suggests, and the sense of thirst also fades with age.
“Just because you’re not thirsty doesn’t mean you don’t need to hydrate yourself,” she said. “They still need to be well hydrated… especially during extreme heat.”
Specific drugs In general, taking older people, such as tablets that reduce fluid retention, also known as diuretics and water pills, can further dehydrate the body.
Dehydration can also lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can have serious consequences for older adults, and often mimic late stage symptoms Dementia or Alzheimer’s diseasepointed out.
Extreme fever affects the brain – here are ways to protect your cognitive health
Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, inability to produce tears and slimy skin.
“From sunset to sunset, you want to make sure you’re there Drinking and eating Foods that ensure you are well hydrated and you are not at risk of hospitalization,” the expert said.
According to Smith, older people usually experience a loss of body and muscle mass, thin skin, and a decrease in their ability to regulate their temperature during aging.
Experts point out that the effects of heat can put a strain on the body not only physically but also cognitively and emotionally.
“The age of stress becomes obsolete,” Smith said. “When we think about extreme heat and the effects it has on our seniors’ bodies… we’re talking about them. Brain function Same thing. “
Smith pointed out that many seniors are still very active. This should be encouraged, but it is also important to keep the time in mind.
“We want to make sure that older people are doing most of their activities during the time before the extreme heat gets hit.
This advice is especially true for Florida and Las Vegas.
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“Before you go to bed, know what the temperature will be like the next day,” advised Smith. “Test your cooling system regularly to make sure it works.”
She noted that there are grant programs that will help older people have the right cooling system in their homes.
For those who need help in some areas Hot summer monthsSmith suggests making sure they live in the environment at the right temperature and make sure they are properly hydrated.
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“You want to see a tribute and find creative ways to ensure their independence while ensuring they are maintaining. A healthy lifestyleShe said.
“This all helps them get older, not premature.”
Khloe Quill from Fox News Digital contributed to this report.
