A hot summer day can be just as deadly as a chilly winter one for older adults. Each year, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), several hundred Americans die of heat stroke or other heat-related illnesses, and most of them are older than 50. Take this quiz to see how much you know about heat stroke and heat exhaustion. It's based on information from the NIA.

1. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke mean the same thing.
True
False

2. Heat-related illness is only a concern if the temperature reaches 100 degrees F.
True
False

3. Having high blood pressure increases your risk of developing a heat-related illness.
True
False

4. If you're overweight, you're at higher risk for developing a heat-related illness.
True
False

5. The only way to keep cool when it's hot indoors is to use a fan or air conditioner.
True
False

6. If your house is hot in the summer, a good place to seek relief is the public library.
True
False

7. It's harder for older people to tell when they're overdressed for the weather.
True
False

8. Headache, nausea and fatigue are common symptoms of heat-related illness.
True
False

9. One way to treat heat exhaustion is to get the person into a cool place.
True
False

THE ANSWERS

1. False. Heat exhaustion is a warning that the body is becoming overheated. If the person does not get help, heat stroke may result. Heat stroke, also called sunstroke, is a medical emergency that is often fatal. Seek immediate medical attention if someone has symptoms that include confusion, bizarre behavior, faintness, staggering and lack of sweating.

2. False. Older adults can be at risk for heat-related illness at lower temperatures, particularly if the air is humid. High humidity hinders the evaporation of sweat from the body. If the temperature is 90 degrees, for instance, and the relative humidity is 70 percent, the air feels as though it's 106 degrees. If you're standing in full sun, it would feel as though the temperature is 121 degrees.

3. True. If you're following a salt-restricted diet because of high blood pressure, you are at higher risk of developing heat-related illness. Don't take salt pills without checking with your doctor. Older adults taking multiple medications also are at higher risk of heat-related illness. It's important to drink extra fluids during hot weather, but ask your doctor if you need to watch how much you drink.

4. True. A person who is overweight has more difficulty regulating body temperature than someone of normal weight. An overweight person also retains more body heat.

5. False. Although fans and air conditioners work best, if you don't have either, you still can take steps to keep cool. Open windows at night to let cool air in. If possible, open windows on two sides of the house to allow a cross-flow of air. Keep blinds, drapes or shades pulled during the hottest part of the day. Take a cool shower or bath.

6. True. Also check out shopping malls and movie theaters. If you don't have transportation, your local senior citizen center or agency on aging may be able to help.

7. True. Older adults often have poor circulation and inefficient sweat glands. Stick with lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing. Lightcolored clothing also helps because it reflects some of the sun's heat. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off your face.

8. True. Symptoms of heat fatigue include cool, moist skin and a weak pulse. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include profuse sweating, giddiness and cold, clammy skin. The pulse is normal or increased.

9. True. If possible, also have the person lie down and rest. Offer the person cool water or fruit juice; avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol. Sponging off with cool water also will ease symptoms.

The Valley Health System c/o Valley Hospital Medical Center 620 Shadow Lane Las Vegas, NV 89106