Heat Health: Seniors

Older adults/seniors and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, can be at increased risk of harm during extreme heat events. Individuals taking certain medicines may also be at increased risk of heat impact, as some medicines interfere with the body’s ability to maintain normal temperature.

When a heat advisory is active, older adults/seniors, individuals with pre-existing conditions and individuals taking medication should:

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if the heat increases your health risk.
• Follow all precautions included in the heat advisory
• very closely monitor yourself for symptoms of heat exhaustion or stroke.
• Take any additional precautions that your pharmacist or physician recommends to manage your health, including any worsening of symptoms.
• Seek medical attention immediately for signs of faintness or an unusual worsening of symptoms.

Family members and neighbours should frequently visit older adults/seniors and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, while the heat advisory is in effect.

By visiting in person, you are more likely to identify signs of heat illness that you could otherwise miss when checking in over the telephone only.