With the arrival of fall, it's common to let go of heat-related precautions, says Dr. Judith Aniekwena, a primary care physician with Renaissance Physician Organization (RPO) in Katy. But with higher-than-average temperatures predicted this season and the residents of Houston facing 90s-degree weather over the next ten days, according to the Weather Channel, it’s important to stay cognizant of how extreme heat will adversely affect the community, she said. “This summer's average surface temperatures were the hottest on record globally,” said Dr. Aniekwena. “These rising temperatures directly affect the 250,000+ seniors living in Houston.”

Based in Katy at 777 S. Fry Road, Dr. Aniekwena operates a practice associated with a rehabilitation facility that primarily serves seniors. The Katy Times posed these questions for Dr. Aniekwena in an interview in late September.

What are the greatest dangers that excess heat poses to senior citizens?

Excessive heat poses several dangers to seniors, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. Seniors are especially vulnerable due to changes in their ability to regulate body temperature, underlying health conditions, and medications that may interfere with heat regulation. Prolonged exposure can lead to complications such as kidney failure, fainting, or even heart problems.

What are common mistakes that seniors often make in dealing with excessive heat?

Some common mistakes include not drinking enough water, underestimating the seriousness of the heat, and continuing outdoor activities during peak sun hours. Seniors might also wear heavy or dark clothing, which can absorb heat, or rely too much on fans instead of air conditioning, which can be ineffective in extreme heat.

What are more effective ways of dealing with the heat?

Staying hydrated is key. Seniors should drink water regularly, even if they don't feel thirsty. Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and wide-brimmed hats can help keep the body cool. It's also important to stay indoors during peak heat hours (typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) and to use air conditioning or visit air-conditioned locations like community centers or malls.

How much water should seniors drink?

A general guideline is to aim for about eight glasses (2 liters) of water per day, but this can vary based on weight, medications, or underlying health conditions. For a more personalized approach, I recommend discussing hydration needs with a healthcare provider, especially if seniors have conditions like heart failure or kidney disease that may affect fluid intake.

How can seniors safely continue their usual routines in the heat?

Seniors should modify their routines to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. For activities like walking or gardening, early mornings or late afternoons are best. When shopping, use air-conditioned stores and avoid parking lots that absorb and retain heat. Staying in the shade and taking breaks in cool environments during outdoor events like craft fairs will help minimize the risk of overheating.

What kinds of seniors' health problems are exacerbated by excess heat?

Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and chronic kidney disease can worsen with extreme heat. Medications that treat these conditions may also interfere with the body's ability to stay hydrated or cool, so seniors should be extra cautious.

How many seniors does Dr. Aniekwena see annually with health issues stemming from excess heat?

Each summer, I typically see around 20-30 seniors experiencing heat-related issues, ranging from mild dehydration to more serious conditions like heat stroke. Heatwaves tend to increase these numbers, so it’s important for seniors and their families not to underestimate the seriousness.

What else should readers of the Katy Times know?

It's crucial for seniors and their caregivers to be proactive during hot weather. Simple measures like hydration, avoiding peak sun exposure, and using air conditioning can prevent heat-related illness. I encourage readers to check on elderly neighbors and loved ones frequently, especially during heat waves, to ensure they're safe.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Aniekwena

Dr. Judith Aniekwena, MD, board-certified Internist & Obesity Medicine Specialist at Macie Medical, is part of Renaissance Physicians, an independent physician association managed by CareAllies. Located at 777 S Fry Rd Ste 206 Katy, TX 77450, individuals can schedule a consultation with the office by calling (713) 300-3905 or by booking online at www.maciemedical.com.