When temperatures hit the high nineties and early hundreds, extreme heat becomes the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. It’s important we remember and care for our seniors. 

Beating the Texas Heat 

Hydration is vital to any living being, but seniors are a more vulnerable demographic than others. As you age, you lose water in your body, and adults 65 and older are more likely to suffer from dehydration. Additionally, kidney function can decrease with age, which can lead to urinating more often and losing more water in the process. 

  • Make sure you always have access to drinkable water and drink some even when you are not thirsty. 
  • Limit or avoid caffeine and alcoholic drinks. 
  • If possible, set up a reminder on your phone or watch to stay hydrated. 
  • If possible, have a water buddy, someone who reminds you to drink water or checks in on your water intake. Bonding over hydration never hurts. 

Cooling down helps your body regulate its temperature. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any medications you take affect your ability to handle heat. 

  • Spend time in a cooling center or an air-conditioned space when possible. 
  • Avoid long, strenuous activity during peak Texas heat. If you need to be outside, try to do so in the early morning or late evening, when it’s typically cooler. 
  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing when possible. 

Communication is key to safety. Having someone you trust to talk to makes the heat more tolerable, whether that means a friend offering to grab ice cream to cool off together, or someone helping you get water or a ride to a cooling center. 

  • Make sure you have someone you can talk to about the heat. 
  • Call your local government office (Houston – 311) to locate cooling centers near you.  

Know Your Heat Warning Signs 

The Red Cross encourages Texans to learn the signs of heat-related illness so they can respond quickly: 

  • Heat cramps: Heavy sweating with muscle pain or spasms. Stop activity, move to a cool place, and rest. 
  • Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, or headache. Move to a cool location, loosen clothing, and sip water slowly. 
  • Heat stroke: A medical emergency marked by confusion, changes in consciousness, or hot, red skin. Call 911 immediately and begin cooling the person while help is on the way. 

The Red Cross offers a free Emergency App with real-time weather alerts and heat safety information available in English and Spanish, Red Cross Emergency App. Free heat safety resources for the community, including fact sheets and posters, are also available at redcross.org.