Texas Heat: Nature's Way of Culling the Elderly

Well, folks, it's that time of year again in Texas. The sun is trying to outdo itself, and older folks are dropping like flies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says if you're over 65, heat is your personal kryptonite. And guess what? The National Weather Service is predicting temps over 100 degrees this week. Buckle up, granny!

What Temperature is Too Hot for Senior Citizens?

Health and Aging says anything over 80 degrees Fahrenheit is a no-go zone. Each summer, over 600 Americans bite the dust thanks to heat and humidity. Old folks and those with health issues are sitting ducks. Thanks, Obama!

How Can Old Folks Avoid Becoming BBQ?

You love your outdoor activities, don't you, grandpa? Well, tough luck! Even morning walks can be too much. Here are some tips to keep the elderly from turning into crispy critters:

• Avoid the sun: If you must go out, do it when the sun's asleep.
• Air conditioning: Stay indoors with the AC blasting. No AC? Go to the mall or library. Or, if you're broke, the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program might help. Call 1-866-674-6327.
• Hydrate: Drink lots of water. Skip the booze and caffeine.
• Dress light: Loose, light-colored clothes. Dark colors absorb heat, you fashionista, you.
• Sunscreen: Slather on that SPF 15 or higher. And don't forget bug spray.
• Stay cool: Cold showers or wet towels on your wrists and neck.

When to Call the ER for Heat-Related Illnesses

If you see someone with these symptoms, they might be halfway to the grave:

• Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin.
• Headache, dizziness, weakness, exhaustion, nausea, heavy sweating.

Get them to a cool place, hydrate them, and call 911 if they're really messed up. Symptoms like rapid pulse, weird blood pressure, vomiting, or high fever? Yeah, they're toast without help.

So, there you have it. Texas heat is a death sentence for the elderly. Happy summer, y'all! 🔥👴🌞💀