Mariam Schrage and other employees of AgeOptions have spent their summers helping seniors in suburban Cook County beat the heat and avoid complications the season’s hot temperatures can bring.

Schrage, manager of benefits, information and education for AgeOptions, said the heat can have a larger effect on the elderly. Schrage shared why it is important for seniors to stay cool in the summer.

Q Why does summer’s heat tend to be more problematic for older adults than younger people?

A Seniors are really susceptible to the heat. With seniors, their bodies do not react as much to the heat. We, as younger people, can notice when it’s getting hot and react to that, but seniors often don’t recognize that until it’s too late.

Q What are some symptoms of heat-related illnesses?

A With seniors, it could be fainting or being light headed. Obviously, high body temperature is another main one, as well as (experiencing) confusion.

Q What can seniors do to avoid heat stroke or other illnesses?

A They should really make sure to drink lots of water and avoid alcohol beverages, or coffees and colas. They should also avoid going out in the heat, if possible, and stay in a place that does have air conditioning. They should avoid physically exerting themselves, keep the lights down or off and take cold baths. In regards to air conditioning, there are cooling centers in the area they can go to ... a lot of them at senior centers, townships or libraries.

Q What can caregivers do to make sure seniors stay safe in hot weather?

A Making sure to check in with them is a big thing. Just making phone calls to them throughout the day to make sure they’re drinking water. Also, actually go and visit them to make sure if they have air conditioning or a fan, that they are using it. They might be thinking they aren’t too hot, when in actuality, they do need that.

Want to know more?
For more information on the not-for-profit AgeOptions and the services it provides to suburban Cook County seniors, or for help locating a cooling center near you, contact the agency at (708) 383-0258 or at its Web site, www.ageoptions.org.