Elderly people as well as outdoor workers are at a particularly higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses and need special care and attention during the season of extreme heat and humidity, cautioned a geriatrics expert at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
“We urge the public to check frequently on elderly family members, friends or neighbours to make sure that they are safe, especially those who are living alone or have chronic medical conditions, mental illness, or any difficulty caring for themselves, said Dr Marwan Ramadan, senior consultant at HMC’s Geriatrics Department in Rumailah Hospital.
Dr Ramadan said that elderly people may have diminished sensation, especially those who have dementia or diabetes, and may not even be aware of being thirsty or feeling too hot. He explained that even otherwise healthy people can find it hard to cope in hot weather because of the physical changes that people undergo as they age.
Those aged 65 and above can rapidly develop serious and life-threatening conditions such as heat stroke, or perhaps even develop complications to an already existing medical condition. Some medications also increase the risk of heat-related illness, such as diuretics, beta blockers, anti-depressants, antihistamines and sedatives, which can also dull an elderly person’s awareness of discomfort.  
“As a precaution, elderly people should review their medications with their doctor to determine whether their prescribed medications put them at increased risk of heat-related illness, and how they may safeguard their health during the intense summer season,” Dr Ramadan explained.
The elderly are also advised to avoid strenuous activity, and warned to remain indoors, in a cool and well-ventilated environment between 10am and 4pm daily, when the temperature is at its peak. Furthermore, they are encouraged to stay hydrated and should opt for lighter meals to avoid increasing the body temperature.
It is also recommended that the elderly avoid consuming alcohol and caffeinated drinks, including tea, coffee and soft drinks, which can actually contribute to dehydration. Those with kidney problems should consult their doctors regarding their fluid intake.
Outdoor workers are also cautioned to take precautions against heat related illnesses during this period. “To avoid heat illnesses, outdoor workers should increase their water and fluid consumption even before they get thirsty. But they should avoid drinking caffeinated drinks. It is important to ensure people rest between 10am and 4pm, the hottest period of the day,” HMC’s chief consultant of Emergency Medicine, Dr Warda al-Saad had earlier cautioned.