Seniors should not ignore heat alerts.

• Position: Summer Weather - Brief article

Every year since 1998, more people have died from extreme heat in the U.S. than from floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined. Yet, our senior citizens--one of the most vulnerable groups to high temperatures and humidity--may be ignoring heat alerts.

A study from Ohio's Kent State University found that 90% of those polled over the age of 65 were aware of heat warnings, but thought the messages were targeted toward "older Americans," a group they ironically do not think they belong in. As a result, Senior Helpers, St. Louis, Mo., an in-home care provider for seniors, has launched a nationwide program called "Heat Helpers."

"Nobody wants to admit they can't deal with extreme heat like they used to," says Peter Ross, CEO and co-founder "Heat safety has changed ... from new FDA guidelines on sunscreen to health recommendations for water intake seniors need to stay hydrated. It often takes an extra set of eyes and ears to make sure seniors are doing everything they can to stay protected. Caregivers must make sure seniors are taking proper precautions to beat...