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Extreme heat can be dangerous for senior citizens

A reminder to check on loved ones or neighbors who may be vulnerable to triple-digit temperatures.

With excessive heat warnings and triple-digit temperatures, it's a good reminder for all of us to check on loved ones or neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat -- like senior citizens.

Many seniors live alone, so having someone check in and make sure they're okay is important at any time of the year, but especially when temperatures reach triple digits.

Experts say, people's ability to notice a change in body temperature can sometimes decrease with age.

Medicine and health problems may also have an effect on how a person's body detects heat.

KTVB tagged along with Metro Meals on Wheels Friday as they delivered food to senior citizens.

The director of the organization, Grant Jones, told KTVB that they make those deliveries and check in on those folks' safety on a daily basis regardless of the weather.

"We encourage seniors to stay indoors and to stay out of the heat, stay in the shade if they are outside and do whatever they need to do outside early in the morning or in the evening, and stay hydrated and take it easy and rest as much as possible," Jones said.

Meals on Wheels also serves lunch to senior centers in Ada County.

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