Senior living experts encourage families to take precautions to help aging loved ones stay safe during prolonged heat
OOLTEWAH, Tenn. (July 1, 2026) – With temperatures soaring across the Southeast and heat advisories issued throughout much of the region, older adults face an increased risk of heat-related illnesses that can quickly become serious without proper precautions.
As people age, the body’s ability to regulate temperature naturally declines, making seniors more susceptible to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Certain medications and chronic health conditions can further increase those risks, making awareness and prevention especially important during periods of extreme heat.
“Many people don’t realize just how differently extreme heat can affect older adults,” said Ian Shives, executive director at Morning Pointe of East Hamilton. “Even healthy seniors can become dehydrated or overheated before they recognize the warning signs. Staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to high temperatures, and simply checking in on an older family member or neighbor can go a long way toward keeping them safe.”
Health experts recommend several steps to help older adults stay safe during periods of excessive heat:
- Drink water regularly, even when not feeling thirsty.
- Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest hours of the day.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing when outside.
- Schedule errands and outdoor activities during the morning or evening.
- Watch for symptoms including dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, unusual fatigue, nausea, confusion, or weakness.
Families are also encouraged to check on aging parents, neighbors, and friends to ensure they have access to air conditioning, are staying hydrated, and are not showing signs of heat-related illness.
“Keeping older adults safe during extreme heat takes both preparation and awareness,” said Bebe Kennedy, RN and Senior Vice President of Operations for Morning Pointe Senior Living. “Across our communities, our teams are intentional about encouraging hydration, monitoring residents’ well-being, and planning activities with the weather in mind. We also encourage families everywhere to take a few moments to check on aging loved ones during these especially hot days. Those small acts of care can make a meaningful difference.”
At Morning Pointe Senior Living communities, residents are encouraged to stay hydrated through regular beverage offerings and hydration stations. Nursing and caregiving teams also conduct ongoing wellness checks while promoting sun safety whenever residents spend time outdoors.
If someone begins experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, including confusion, loss of consciousness, or a dangerously high body temperature, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
About Morning Pointe Senior Living
Founded in 1997 by healthcare entrepreneurs Greg A. Vital and J. Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living operates assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in four southeastern states, including GA, IN, KY & TN. For more information, visit morningpointe.com.
The philanthropic arm of Morning Pointe Senior Living is the Morning Pointe Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to provide clinical scholarships and caregiver support.
