Anyone who lives in Arizona, or who has visited during the summer, can testify to the power of the sun and the need to respect it. Our so-called “dry” heat is all the more dangerous because it can quickly cause de-hydration leading progressively to heat stress, heat exhaustion and, sometimes fatally, heat stroke. 

Signs of de-hydration 

Drinking lots of water is a way of life here in the Valley of the Sun. By the time we feel thirsty, we are already partially de-hydrated. Unless we drink some water, get out of the direct sun and into a cooler place, heat stress can trigger muscle spasms or cramps.  Without some relief, we can rapidly progress to heat exhaustion and experience upset stomach, headache, vomiting and dizziness. Most people at this point know enough to get inside and drink water steadily until the symptoms subside. 

Those who are unable to recognize the signs of de-hydration and act quickly will likely soon experience classic symptoms of heat stroke, including hot, red skin, dizziness and confusion accompanied by rapid weak pulse and shallow breathing. The brain quickly loses its ability to regulate body temperature. Since the results can be fatal and the de-hydrated person may be disoriented, it is critical for someone nearby to call 911 for emergency help. Meanwhile the heat victim should be immersed in cool water or wrapped in wet sheets.  

Groups most at risk 

Last year 56 Arizona residents died of heat related illnesses, and many more suffered serious effects before recovering. While even the strongest and most fit among us can fall prey to the effects of de-hydration, several groups are especially susceptible. People over 65, those with disabilities or chronic medical conditions, and those who are overweight or taking certain medications for depression, insomnia or circulation are among those with increased risk for heat related illnesses.

Seniors, especially those with low income and poor health, are at high risk for heat stress. They often lack air conditioning or choose not to run it in order to save money. If they live alone and lack someone to look in on them frequently, they can easily submit to heat prostration before they realize it.

Persons experiencing homelessness are by definition exposed to extreme outdoor temperatures and generally lack the basic resources to protect themselves or recover from de-hydration. They require special attention and yet are often dismissed by stereotyped thinking that makes us fear them or view them as unworthy.

As I see the increasing numbers of homeless men, women and even children on our city streets, I inevitably remind myself that “There, but for the grace of God, go I.” Each homeless person has his or her own unique and compelling story. Most of us are shocked to learn how many homeless people have been denied attention due to the limits of our behavioral health system, how many are recently returned veterans who fought bravely for their country and how many have lost their homes during our recent economic downturn. 

Heat Relief Network 

Fortunately, help is available across the Valley to combat heat stress. The City of Phoenix has organized the Heat Relief Network to provide free bottled water to at-risk individuals and to establish hydration stations and heat refuges across the Valley where individuals can cool off and seek respite from the summer heat. In its fifth year of operation, the program now includes public and private members across all of Maricopa County. Volunteer organizations donate bottled water, do wellness checks and distribute water to people at-risk people both in their homes and on the streets, and at staff cooled indoor hydration stations. Last year 376 thousand bottles of water were distributed by the program. 

The Foundation for Senior Living has been proud to support of this annual effort. Our home care and home health workers educate our in-home clients on heat stress prevention and bring bottles of water for convenient use by those who otherwise could not afford them. In addition, our Home Improvements program works with cities throughout the Valley to repair home coolers, weatherize houses and perform other emergency work to keep the homes of low income families comfortable and safe against the Arizona heat. 

And so may we all remind ourselves to stay cool and hydrated and check in on our at-risk neighbors to make sure they do the same. And let us take note that the same life-giving water that baptizes us in faith also sustains us on the most elemental level throughout our lives.

Guy Mikkelsen is president and CEO of the Foundation for Senior Living. For more information, call (602) 285-1800 or visit www.fsl.org.