What We Need to Know about Environmental Conditions Affecting Our Health

In many parts of the country, extreme weather has made it a very challenging year especially for older adults and people suffering from many chronic health conditions including asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Not only have areas experienced record-setting heat waves but many have also had to deal with poor air quality due to wild fires, to the point of people asking themselves, if it is safe to go outside.

Extreme hot temperatures can be deadly as recently reported by the Harvard Medical Publishing website. They report on disturbing statistics showing more than “a third of all heat-related deaths in the US and worldwide have been attributed to climate change. In the US alone, heat is responsible for an estimated 5,600 deaths annually.”

Smoke from wildfires has been widespread and can irritate the eyes and lungs, and worsen some medical conditions. The Oregon Smoke Information site says, “People most at risk include infants and young children, people with heart or lung disease, older adults and pregnant women.”

Doctors say people taking certain medications such as diuretics as well as the elderly have to be careful about retaining adequate fluids in their body during periods of extreme heat. High temperatures can rob the body of essential minerals in the blood called electrolytes and can be especially dangerous for people with heart or kidney disease and diabetes. Records from Medicare report hospital admissions during heat waves of two or more days are most often the result of “heat stroke, sunstroke, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and acute kidney failure.”

Dehydration and exposure to high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion and lead to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention. The Mayo Clinic says symptoms include heavy sweating, faintness, dizziness, fatigue, weakness, rapid pulse, and muscle cramps.

Searching for one of the area’s top retirement communities? Hillsboro’s new MorningStar of Hillsboro has everything you could want from stylish apartments, to amenities, hospitality services, and location. Our contemporary-styled building is both a gracious home and high-end resort with 141 apartments in a range of configurations and floor plans. Onsite amenities include a pool, fitness center, art studio, indoor and outdoor dining venues, beautiful nature areas nearby and our own strolling paths to promote a healthy lifestyle for active 55+ seniors. Visit our website to learn more, and while you are there fill out the online form to connect with us.

Source:

health.harvard.edu/blog/extreme-heat-staying-safe-if-you-have-health-issues-202108062563

Comments

Be an Active Partner in Your Medical Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy. In fact, a study showed 7% of hospitalized patients experienced an event that was considered preventable which negatively affected their health. Furthermore, harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are typically related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines. Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis result in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong medications prescribed or supplied can cause serious complications. However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits s...

Adjust Your Attitude toward “Growing Older”

New studies suggest our attitude toward growing older may affect how well we do with our own aging process. Researchers report findings that show those who negatively view aging may have a higher likelihood of developing changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease . One such study was published in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Psychology and Aging. Its authors suggest if a person shifts their belief about aging to a more positive view; it may be beneficial in helping to mitigate the ravages of Alzheimer’s. Associate professor of public health and psychology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study’s leader, Becca Levy said, “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes.” She says while these findings are concerning, “it is encouraging to realize that these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated, and positive beli...

Companion Living Available at MorningStar’s Community in Houston

MorningStar at River Oaks recognizes that for some, assisted living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable. One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.” This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care. Obviously, it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them. However, we know that option is not always available, so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you. We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests as that provides a good basis for building a friendship. With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split. Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community . The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident ...

MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Search This Blog