Safety During Extreme Heat: Tips for Protecting Older Adults

As temperatures rise during the summer, older adults are at increased risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Certain medications used to manage chronic conditions can further increase this risk. For example, diuretics increase fluid loss and may lead to dehydration. Older adults taking such medications may benefit from a medication review with their community pharmacist. Specifically, pharmacists can identify medications that may increase heat-related risks, provide individualized counseling and medication therapy management, and recommend strategies to help patients stay safe.

Some of these strategies include:

• Drinking water regularly throughout the day unless advised to limit fluids.

• Staying indoors or in air-conditioned environments during the hottest parts of the day.

• Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat.

• Watching for warning signs such as dizziness, excessive fatigue, headache, confusion, or decreased urination, and seeking medical attention if these symptoms occur.

  
  

By educating older adults about these strategies, pharmacists can help prevent avoidable emergencies and keep them safer.