Elderly people suffering from hot weather

Nowadays, it is hard to even stand a minute outside because of the unbearable heat. With temperature rising up to 35 degrees, just standing can be a burden. Still people living in the city are better off because almost every room has an air conditioner so they can cool themselves off. The situation is so sincere that even though it is only the beginning of June, the government has issued an energy shortage warning.

People in the countryside however, face a much more difficult situation. There are only worn out fans in the houses of elderly people so even indoors are not cool enough. Also many old citizens farm in order to earn their living. Farming must be done during the afternoon because in the evening it is impossible to the delicate work that is required in farming. However 12~2, times when temperatures skyrocket, is also the time when most people are out in the field.

Also elderly people are in their 70s and 80s so they can’t even move around properly. They get tired easily even after moving around for a short movement in their homes. Just imagine them working in the heat; it will be near torture to them. That’s why cases of elderly people suffering in the heat occur frequently and in worse cases, the exhausting heat can result in death.

When you turn on news there is at least one news report of elderly people suffering in the heat. For example, an elderly couple collapsed in their own greenhouse and was later discovered by their own son. Later when the police investigated their bodies, they found no external wounds but they said that the bodies were very red and swollen up. The doctors later confirmed that the couple had died from sunstroke and that they had many illnesses over the past few years.

Doctors and government have realized the seriousness of the problem. So doctors and nurses are now visiting the countryside to give people regular checkups and medicine. Also when the temperatures get really high, the chief announces to the town through speakers that the residents must try to avoid outdoor activities as much as possible. Also carrying a cool bottle of ice and a wet towel is crucial. Covering one’s face with a hat can also help. Even though there is a lot of work to be done, it is best to work in the early morning and rest in the afternoon. Also when working in a greenhouse, always open the door wide open to let the cool air in. Just following these simple life rules will help prevent sunstrokes and other illnesses associated with hot weather.