Age alters the thermoregulatory responses to extreme heat exposure with accompanying activities of daily living
Zachary J. McKenna, Josh Foster, Whitley C. Atkins, Luke N. Belval, Joseph C. Watso, Caitlin P. Jarrard, Bonnie D. Orth, Craig G. Crandall
Abstract
Using an experimental model of extreme heat exposure that incorporates brief periods of light physical activity to simulate activities of daily living, the extent of thermal strain reported herein more accurately represents what would occur during actual heatwave conditions. Despite matching metabolic heat generation and environmental conditions, we show that older adults have augmented core temperature responses, likely due to age-related reductions in heat dissipating mechanisms.
Topics & Concepts
ThermoregulationExtreme heatMedicinePhysiologyChemistryBiologyInternal medicineEcologyClimate changeClimate Change and Health ImpactsThermoregulation and physiological responsesInfrared Thermography in Medicine