Jul 22, 2024
It's summer, and for some, the heat might just be getting harder to handle. As we age, the body handles heat differently, and we have a higher risk for heat exhaustion.1
In this article, we explain why it happens, the warning signs to watch out for, and simple ways to stay cool and hydrated.
With a little know-how, managing the heat through the summer could feel a lot more achievable.
Why Does Heat Affect Older Adults More?
If you’re wondering why heat bothers you more as you're getting older, it comes down to a few things: the medications you may take, your living arrangements, and the natural physical changes that come with aging.
Physiological Changes That Increase Heat Risk
First up, let’s look at the physical changes. As you get older, you might sweat less and have thinner skin, which makes it harder to stay cool. 1,2
Then there are medical conditions. Many older adults also deal with conditions like heart disease (where heat and medication don’t make a good pairing) or dementia, that could prevent someone from taking care of themself during extreme heat, which could make the heat a bigger risk.3
Living situations also play a part, since seniors who live alone or in places without good airflow, like high-rise buildings, face a higher risk of heat illness.3
Social isolation adds to this, because an older adult may not notice heat-related problems in time to get help due to not being around other people much to notice or talk about current conditions.3
Medications That Can Increase Heat Sensitivity
Some everyday medications could change how your body copes with heat.4
They may reduce sweating, increase fluid loss, or affect how well your blood moves heat away from your core.4
Sweating, fluids and even how well your circulation works each play a part in keeping you cool, so anything that slows them down or takes them away may make hot weather harder to handle.4
This does not mean your medication is unsafe or that you should stop taking it.4 If you are unsure how your own medication fits with hot weather, a pharmacist or your doctor can talk it through with you.
Recognizing Heat-Related Illness: From Cramps to Heat Stroke
Heat-related illness is not just one thing; it ranges from mild to life-threatening.1 It often starts with heat cramps, may build to heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke, which is a medical emergency1
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms that may show up during intense exercise or activity in hot weather.5 They often happen because excessive sweating could cause dehydration and the loss of electrolytes.5
You might notice cramping or pain in your legs, arms, or stomach, along with heavier sweating and skin that feels moist and cool.5 Many people also feel tired or weak.
This is the mildest stage of heat-related illness, and it is usually manageable when you catch it early.6
If cramps start, rest and move to a cooler spot.5 Gently stretch the affected muscles and drink water or an electrolyte drink to rehydrate.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a sign that your body cannot keep itself cool for much longer.5 It develops when heat cramps are untreated or if exposure to hot temperatures continues.5
Some signs of heat exhaustion include:5
- Heavy sweating.
- Weakness or fatigue.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Cool, moist skin with goosebumps despite the heat.
- A rapid heartbeat.
If you notice signs of heat exhaustion, act early.7 Move to a cool place, rest, and loosen any tight clothing.7 Drink water or an electrolyte drink, and apply cool, damp cloths to your skin to help bring your temperature down.7
Watch for signs of dehydration too, such as a dry mouth, dark pee, or feeling dizzy.8
If your symptoms do not improve, go to the hospital, as heat exhaustion can build into heat stroke.7
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency and the most severe form of heat-related illness.1
Note: If you are experiencing symptoms, or if you notice someone having heat stroke, call 911 immediately, and do not attempt to manage it at home.
Heat stroke happens when the body’s temperature regulation fails, and the core body temperature rises to a dangerous level.
Signs of heat stroke include:5
- High body temperature or hyperthermia (above 103°F or 40°C).
- Confusion, agitation, or delirium.
- Slurred speech.
- Hot, dry skin (no sweating).
- Rapid, strong pulse.
- Loss of consciousness or seizures.
Hydration, Incontinence, and Heat: What You Need to Know
While cutting back on fluid might seem like a good idea to reduce leaks, it may go the other way, especially in hot weather.
Drinking less water could make your pee more concentrated, irritating your bladder, and making urges feel stronger.9 It could also increase your risk for a urinary tract infection and heat exhaustion.10,11
So instead of drinking less, it could be better to stay hydrated throughout the day. If you’re worried about leaks, you should stock up on some breathable, absorbent products designed for men and women to help keep you dry and comfortable.
Practical Tips to Stay Safe in Hot Weather
Planning for a heat wave starts with knowing the signs, then taking a few practical steps to be prepared.
Stay Hydrated — Even If You Have Bladder Concerns
Research shows that people with urinary incontinence might end up not drinking enough water, which could make them more prone to dehydration.8 This makes staying hydrated even more important during a heat wave. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.8
Besides water, try diluted fruit juices and electrolyte drinks to keep hydrated when it is hot.5
Watch out for signs of dehydration like:8
- Dry mouth and lips
- Dark pee
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Even if you don’t feel thirsty, keep sipping fluids regularly. Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks as they can dehydrate you.5
Keep Your Home Cool
Here are some handy tips to keep your home cool during the heat:
- Use fans and air conditioning to keep the air circulating and cool.1
- If you don’t have air conditioning, think about staying with friends or relatives with access to it.1
- During the hottest parts of the day, stopping for an “air conditioning break” at a nearby mall or library may be helpful.1
- Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun.5
- Take cool showers or use damp cloths to cool down your body directly.1
Adjust Activity Levels During Peak Heat Hours
- Limit strenuous activities during peak heat hours (10 AM to 4 PM) to avoid heat-related illnesses.5
- Schedule activities for the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening.5
- Wear a hat, take frequent breaks, and rest in the shade or a cool place.1
In all, pay attention to your body; it is your best beacon. Avoid pushing through fatigue on hot days.
Signs of Heat-Related Illness
There are some health issues that might come up from prolonged overheating or unprotected sun exposure. Some signs of heat-related illness include:
Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms that can occur during intense exercise or physical activity in hot weather.4 They are often caused by dehydration and the loss of electrolytes through sweating.4 Signs include4:
- Muscle pain or spasms, usually in the legs, arms, or stomach.
- Sweating more than usual, and your skin may feel moist and cool.
- Fatigue or weakness.
Eat Lighter Meals to Help Keep Temperature Down
Heavy meals can make you feel warmer. During heat waves, it's better to eat light, easy-to-digest, water-rich foods like fresh fruits and vegetables. You can try watermelon, cucumbers, or even cool dairy products like yogurt.12
Have a Heat Wave Plan in Place
Before the heat hits, it could help to get your heat wave safety plan in place ahead of time:
- Know your cool spots: Find places with air-conditioning access near you, such as libraries, malls, or community centers, so you have somewhere to go.
- Set up a check-in: Ask a neighbor, friend, or caregiver to check in on you during extreme heat days.
- Stock the essentials: Keep water, your medications, and incontinence products on hand, so you do not need to head out in the hottest part of the day.
Choose Breathable Clothing and Incontinence Products
What you wear may make a real difference on hot days. Lightweight, natural fabrics like cotton and linen may let air move against your skin, helping sweat evaporate, keeping you cooler.
Loose-fitting clothes work better than tight ones since they give the air room to circulate. A wide-brimmed hat also adds shade and helps protect you from the sun when you are outside.
The same idea works with incontinence products. A well-fitting, breathable product helps you feel comfortable and helps your skin health when the weather is warm.
In hotter months, underwear-style products could be a comfortable, easy choice to help keep you fresh, confident and dry.
When to Seek Medical Help for Heat Exhaustion
Sometimes heat is something a few home remedies could handle; other times, it's best to let the professionals take the lead.
Home treatment for heat exhaustion
Move to a cool space, rest, and hydrate.7 Apply cool, damp cloths to your skin.7 Watch any symptoms closely and look out for improvement.7
Call 911 right away for heat stroke
Get help if you or someone else has any of these signs:
- Confusion or disorientation5
- Loss of consciousness5
- No sweating, even in the heat5
- Body temperature above 103°F5
- Seizures5
- No improvement after 30 minutes of cooling down11
FAQs
What are the First Signs of Heat Exhaustion in an Older Adult?
Watch out for heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat.5
Their skin might feel cool and clammy despite the heat.1 If you notice these signs, move the person to a cool area, offer water or an electrolyte drink, and let them rest.5
If they do not improve within 30 minutes or they get worse, call 911 right away.11
Why Does Heat Bother Older Adults More Than Younger People?
As you age, your body might not regulate your temperature as well as it used to. This happens for multiple reasons.
You tend to sweat less, which reduces how much your body naturally cools down.13 You might also not feel thirsty as usual until dehydration has already set in.13
Certain chronic conditions and medications can make the body more sensitive to heat, which can raise the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.3,4
What is the Difference Between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke?
Heat exhaustion is serious but manageable.7 It happens because the body is overheating and trying to cool itself.5 You might notice heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea.5
Heat stroke, on the other hand, is a medical emergency that happens when your body's temperature control fails.5 You might notice a very high body temperature, confusion, and a lack of sweating.5
If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 right away instead of trying to treat it at home.
Can Medications Make Older Adults More Vulnerable to Heat Exhaustion?
Yes. Some medications may affect how the body handles heat.4 Some reduce sweating, others increase fluid loss, and a few affect blood flow in high temperatures.4
If you or a loved one takes regular medications, talk to a pharmacist or doctor about heat-related risks before summer arrives.4
Should Someone with Incontinence Drink Less Water in Hot Weather?
No. Drinking less water in hot weather is risky. Not drinking enough could worsen the urges you feel to pee, raise your risk of a UTI, or lead to heat exhaustion.9,10,11
For advice on managing both hydration and bladder control in summer, check with your doctor.
What Should I Do if an Elderly Person Shows Signs of Heat Exhaustion?
Move the person to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned space as quickly as possible.7
Loosen or remove excess clothing, apply cool, damp cloths to the neck, armpits, and groin, and offer small sips of cool water or an electrolyte drink.7,14
If your loved one becomes confused, stops sweating, or loses consciousness, call 911 right away.5
How Much Water Should an Older Adult Drink During a Heat Wave?
Most older adults need at least 8 glasses of water per day, but it may vary based on the heat or physical activity levels.5
You don't have to wait until you're thirsty to drink water, especially as the signal becomes less reliable with age.13
Water, diluted fruit juice, and electrolyte drinks are better choices than alcohol and caffeinated drinks to stay hydrated.5
When Should I Call 911 for Heat-Related Illness?
Call 911 right away if the person shows signs of heat stroke: confusion or disorientation, loss of consciousness, a very high body temperature, hot and dry skin with no sweating despite the heat, or seizures.1,5
You should also call if symptoms of heat exhaustion do not improve after 30 minutes of rest and cooling down.11
When in doubt, call for help. Heat stroke can be life-threatening without emergency care.5
Are TENA Incontinence Products Suitable to Wear in Hot Weather?
TENA offers incontinence underwear and pads made with breathable materials to support comfort throughout the day.
In hot weather, a well-fitting, breathable product could help your skin health and comfort.
Underwear-style products are a popular choice in the warmer months, since they feel closer to regular underwear while still giving reliable protection.
What Temperature is Dangerous for Elderly People to be Outside?
There is no single safe temperature, since humidity, sun exposure, and individual health conditions all affect heat risk.1,3/sup>
Health authorities generally advise older adults to take extra care when the heat index is high. This is especially true during the hottest hours, between 10 AM and 4 PM.5
On very hot days, staying indoors with air conditioning or a fan is the safest choice.
References
1. CDC. ‘Older Adults and Extreme Heat’. 2021. Accessed 26 June 2024. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/aging/emergency-preparedness/older-adults-extreme-heat/index.html
2. Harvard Health. ‘The Effects of Heat on Older Adults’. 2021. Accessed 26 June 2024. Available from: https://magazine.hms.harvard.edu/articles/effects-heat-older-adults
3. NIHHIS. ‘Who is most at risk to extreme heat’. N.d. Accessed 26 June 2024. Available from: https://www.heat.gov/pages/who-is-at-risk-to-extreme-heat
4. Schimelpfening N. Common Medications That Can Put You at Higher Risk on Hot Days [Internet]. Healthline. 2024. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/common-medications-heat-risks
5. NIH. ‘Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults’. 2022. Accessed 26 June 2024. Available from: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/hot-weather-safety-older-adults
5. NIH. ‘Hydration Status in Older Adults: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges’. 2023. Accessed 26 June 2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10255140/
6. Cleveland Clinic. Heat Cramps: Causes & Treatment [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2023. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24866-heat-cramps
7. Cleveland Clinic. Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms & treatment [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2021. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21480-heat-exhaustion
8. NIH. ‘Hydration Status in Older Adults: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges’. 2023. Accessed 26 June 2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10255140/
9. Cleveland Clinic. Overactive Bladder (OAB): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2022. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14248-overactive-bladder
10. Powell Key A. Signs You Have Bladder Infection: Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment [Internet]. WebMD. 2026. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-bladder-infections-diagnosis-and-treatment
11. Hansen K. Heat Stroke vs. Heat Exhaustion: What’s the Difference? [Internet]. Healthline. 2026. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/heat-stroke-vs-heat-exhaustion
12. Stinson A. The best ways to reduce body heat, and when to see a doctor [Internet]. 2025 [cited 2026 Jul 6]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326235#faq
13. University of Alabama at Birmingham. ‘Discover the best foods to beat the heat wave’. 2023. Accessed 27 June 2024. Available from: https://www.uab.edu/news/youcanuse/item/13685-discover-the-best-foods-to-beat-the-heat-wave
