Beat the Heat: Staying Safe in Hot Weather as an Indianapolis Senior

As a senior in Indianapolis, it's essential to take precautions during hot weather. A heatwave can be particularly challenging for older adults, who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

"Keep my blinds closed. Keep the A/C on. Make sure I drink a lot of water," Willie Millsap said. “Ya gotta enjoy this heat while you can cuz in a minute it goin’ be Halloween. It’s goin’ be cold again.”

Harold Fields, who had to cope without air conditioning for some time, emphasized the importance of staying hydrated.

"I used to be a sweet tea drinker but they say it can give you diabetes," he said.

Marta Guinn, Director of Operations at Senior Helpers, warned that older adults are more prone to heat-related illnesses and dehydration.

“If they get dehydrated, their body organs shut down. That’s with everyone. Our seniors who are also on the medications that are diuretics to help maintain a heart condition or high blood pressure or what not, they’re already susceptible to being dehydrated," she said.

To stay safe and cool during hot weather, Guinn recommends:

• wearing light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat
• staying indoors between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• avoiding strenuous activity
• taking cool showers or baths

Guinn also emphasized the importance of checking in on seniors daily, looking out for signs of heat-stroke and heat-related stress, such as:

• excessive sweating, unusual fatigue or weakness, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, nausea or vomiting
• fainting, confusion or disorientation, rapid pulse, lack of sweating