Albany, NY—New York State Office for the Aging Acting Director Greg Olsen reminds older New Yorkers and their family members to take precautions in extreme heat, as mid-summer’s warmer temperatures and high humidity can create hazardous conditions for older adults.

“Extreme heat and humidity can be serious, and can be particularly dangerous for older adults,” said Olsen. “Older adults, especially those who are low-income, live alone, have chronic conditions or who take certain medications are more susceptible to heat-related illness. During summer months, neighbors and family members should check on older individuals daily to make sure they are healthy and safe.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers health and safety tips on how to stay cool, hydrated, and informed during extreme heat:

• Tune in regularly to local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care.

• Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. Do not rely on a fan only as your main cooling source when it’s really hot outside.

• Drink more water than usual. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

• If your doctor limits the amount of fluids you drink or has you on water pills, ask them how much you should drink during hot weather.

• Don’t use the stove or oven to cook—it will make you and your house hotter.

• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.

• Do not engage in strenuous activities and get plenty of rest.

• Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.

• Seek medical care immediately if you have or someone you know has symptoms of heat-related illness like muscle cramps, headaches, nausea or vomiting.

If your home does not have air conditioning, visit the New York State Department of Health’s website or call NY Connects at 1-800-342-9871 to find a cooling center near you.

Cooling center locations are also available on NYSOFA’s first in the nation aging services mobile app, which connects older adults and their families with vital services and information in their communities. This free app is available for download on iOS devices and Android devices.

About the New York State Office for the Aging
The mission of the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) is to help older New Yorkers be as independent as possible for as long as possible through advocacy, development and delivery of person-centered, consumer-oriented, and cost-effective policies, programs, and services that support and empower older adults and their families, in partnership with the network of public and private organizations that serve them. Stay connected to the New York State Office for the Aging—download the NYSOFA mobile app for iOS or Android; visit the NYSOFA Facebook page; follow @NYSAGING on Twitter; or visit www.aging.ny.gov.