High temperatures can create serious health risks for people, especially if they are engaged in physical activities—even routine walking or gardening outside. A person’s age and health status, such as the presence of lung, heart, or kidney disease, and their hydration status, can influence our natural body-cooling processes.

Adults 65 years and older are at higher risk of adverse health impacts from high heat, but heat-related health impacts are preventable (CDC). We developed this toolkit to empower older adults to prevent or reduce the severity of heat-related symptoms and adverse health impacts.

Be Aware

Consider the following when determining if you or your family are at greater risk during extreme heat events:

• Pre-existing Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Many Medications, prescribed or over the counter, can raise the risk of heat-related illness. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if the medications you take pose increased risk.

Plan Ahead

Prepare a Go Kit. A Go Kit for extreme heat events in case of a power outage is crucial. Include items such as a three-day supply of water, electrolytes, cooling towels, non-perishable food, and medications.

Create a Community. A support network is vital during extreme heat. Maintain communication with caregivers, family, friends, and loved ones who are at risk and remind them to stay cool, safe, and indoors where it is cooler.

These local resources can assist you with non-emergency transportation:
Senior Transportation or Dial-A-Ride Transportation Programs by County

• Yolo County: 211
• Placer County: 530-745-7560
• El Dorado County: 530-642-3696
• Sacramento RT: 530-745-7560

Be Informed. Monitor local weather and heat advisories. Enroll in notifications from local authorities about heat warnings. Call transportation programs in your county for hours of operation.

During an Extreme Heat Event (Unusually High Temperatures)

Stay Hydrated. Increase your fluid intake during extreme heat events. Check with your doctor how much to drink if you have fluid limitations. Avoid alcohol and sugary or caffeinated drinks (like soda) to prevent dehydration.

A Cool Environment is necessary. Avoid yard work and other outdoor activities during heat events. Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day—usually between 2pm–5pm. If you lack air conditioning, spend time in cool places like malls or libraries.

Remember—fans are less effective above 90°F and can increase dehydration. Therefore, use a fan to blow air across skin moistened with water using a damp cloth or spray bottle.

Identifying Heat Related Symptoms

Rescue

Respond During Extreme Heat

Get Help. If moderate symptoms have occurred, immediate medical attention is necessary if you or another affected person are not feeling better after moving into a cooled environment.

Respond Quickly. If you experience early or moderate symptoms, respond by seeking a cooler environment immediately. Respond to moderate symptoms by seeking medical advice or help, especially if you are alone.

Call 911 for help. This is a critical period! If possible, move to a cooler environment and moisten skin with water while you wait for emergency assistance.

This toolkit was developed in 2024 through the University of California Climate Action Innovation & Entrepreneurship Grant. Contributors are from UC Davis Health and include:

• David Barnes, MD, FACEP, Health Sciences Clinical Professor of Emergency Medicine
• Helene G. Margolis, M.A., Ph.D., Adjunct Professor of Medicine, Dept. of Internal Medicine
• Katren Tyler, MD, FACEP, Health Sciences Clinical Professor of Emergency Medicine
• Kristina Bair, MBA, LEED Green Associate, Sustainability Director
• Reshmi Prasad, MS, LEED Green Associate, Sustainability Officer