Symptoms of heat exhaustion in elderly people

Heat exhaustion develops when the body loses fluid and salt while trying to cool itself. An older person may not feel thirsty, may have reduced sweating, or may have a medical condition and medicines that make heat harder to tolerate. Watch for dizziness, headache, weakness, cramps, nausea, clammy skin, dark urine, confusion, or a noticeable change in behaviour. Heat intolerance and dehydration can resemble or accompany heat exhaustion, but confusion or collapse raises concern for heatstroke.

Move the person to a cool place, loosen extra clothing, and cool the skin with wet cloths or a fan. If they are awake and can swallow safely, offer frequent small sips of cool water or an appropriate rehydration drink. Do not leave them alone. Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity, and check whether symptoms improve while arranging medical advice. If they have fluid restrictions or swallowing problems, ask a clinician which drink is safe.

Call emergency services for confusion, fainting, seizure, inability to drink, severe weakness, very hot skin, or symptoms that do not improve quickly with cooling. Heatstroke can become life-threatening and needs urgent treatment. Seek prompt medical advice for ongoing dizziness, dark urine, reduced urination, or repeated vomiting, especially in someone who lives alone or takes regular medicines.

Ask how much fluid is appropriate with existing heart or kidney problems, whether medicines increase heat risk, and how to plan cooling during hot weather. Ask which changes in alertness, urination, or sweating should prompt emergency help.