Elderly people and heat stroke: what to know

Heat stroke happens when the body cannot control its temperature after heat exposure. Older adults may be less able to sense thirst, sweat effectively or adjust to hot surroundings. Confusion, unusual drowsiness, fainting, weakness, a very hot body, headache, vomiting or seizures can occur. Heat exhaustion can worsen into heat stroke, so do not wait for every sign to appear.

Call emergency services. Move the person to shade or an air-conditioned place, remove extra clothing and cool the skin with wet cloths, cool water or a fan. Stay with them and keep checking breathing. Do not give drinks to someone who is confused, unconscious or unable to swallow; do not delay help to treat at home. Hospital treatment may include [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/).

Seek emergency care immediately for confusion, collapse, seizure, loss of consciousness, severe weakness or a hot body after heat exposure. Repeated [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/) also needs urgent assessment because it can prevent safe rehydration. A person who has milder symptoms such as [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) or suspected [Heat Exhaustion](/conditions/heat-exhaustion/) should be moved to a cool place and assessed promptly if symptoms do not quickly improve.

Ask which medicines may increase heat sensitivity, how to plan cooling during hot weather and whether heart, kidney or memory problems change the safety plan. Ask who should check on the person and what early symptoms should trigger a call.