As Heat Continues, Extra Care Needed For Elderly & Babies

Temperatures soared above 100 degrees on Friday and the weather will remain stifilingly hot overnight, with predictions that temperatures hovering around three digits may continue into Saturday.

Such heat is dangerous for everyone, but the community health programs manager for the Karen Ellis, offered some tips for especially protecting older residents (or babies) from the heat.

Even those who want to continue their usual routine should avoid going out in the hottest part of the day, and should restrain even from outdoor activities such as gardening in this weather, Ellis advised.

"Keep it low-key," Ellis said of activities in this weather. She said elderly people sometimes don't sweat as much, and should be especially careful to remain adequately hydrated.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, elevated body temperature, and some confusion, Ellis said.

A sheet sent home with relatives of elderly people at the VNA's Adult Day Center at its Mount Airy Road facility advises avoiding direct sunlight as much as possible, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing and sunscreen when in the sun.

"Remember, the elderly have very thin skin. They burn easily and may be on medications which cause a photosensitivity," the sheet suggested.

Ellis said older people should try to remain mostly in air conditioning and/or by fans, although they might be reluctant to spend the money to run such appliances.

Somerset County suggested "cooling centers" such as libraries — and other spots, such as movie theaters, offer air-conditioned havens — but at other times those stuck in a hot house should consider seeking out friends or relatives with air conditioning, Ellis said.

Ellis called upon neighbors and families to check on their older relatives or friends periodically to make sure they are making it through the heat wave.

At the other end of the age spectrum, Ellis said that babies, especially infants, should be watched carefully since their bodies' heat-regulating systems are not fully developed. 

Babies, like the elderly, definitely should be kept out of direct sunlight, Ellis said. They should be checked to make sure they are producing a number of wet diapers each day to determine if they are adequately hydrated, she said.

Call a doctor with any concerns and, "Keep cool!" the VNA advises.