KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5 — With climate change causing erratic temperatures in tropical Malaysia, the health risks to very young children, older adults, or even fit people who do not have the luxury of air conditioners at home can be very severe. To these vulnerable groups, it can be a life or death situation. Here’s why, in case you didn’t already know.
The elderly As people age, their bodies struggle more with heat regulation. This means older adults can easily become overheated, especially if they have chronic health issues like heart disease or diabetes. This also affects those who take certain prescription medications as they could find it harder to regulate their body temperature or feel the effects of extreme heat more acutely.
Additionally, conditions like dementia can make it difficult for them to recognise the need for protective actions during a heatwave, putting them at greater risk. How to keep the elderly comfortable during hot days Babies, toddlers, and other young children Children are another group that needs special attention during heatwaves as their smaller bodies heat up quicker and they are not yet able to regulate their internal temperature compared to adults. This makes them more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially when they are active outside and not drinking enough fluids.
As minors, they depend on their guardians to keep an eye out for their safety. How to care for young kids indoors and outdoors People with low-incomes Low-wage earners who live in poorly insulated homes that trap heat often lack access to cooling systems like air conditioning. These factors make it harder for them to stay cool when temperatures reach scorching levels due to financial constraints.
The income disparities mean that they might have chronic health conditions and less access to medical care, which makes them even more vulnerable to heat-related issues that could lead to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. How to guard this group.
