Mitigating Heat-induced Physiological Strain and Discomfort in Older Adults Via Lower Limb Immersion and Neck Cooling

Aging Clinical Trial

Official title: Evaluating the Efficacy of Lower Leg Immersion With and Without Neck Cooling for Limiting Heat Strain in Elderly Adults During Extreme Heat Events

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

The incidence and severity of hot weather and extreme heat events (heat waves) is increasing. As such, there is an urgent need to develop heat-alleviation strategies that can provide targeted protection for older adults who are at an elevated risk for heat-induced illnesses or death due to impaired body temperature and cardiovascular regulation. While air-conditioning provides the most effective protection from extreme heat, it is inaccessible for many individuals and cannot be used during power outages (e.g., heat-related rolling blackouts). Immersion of the lower limbs in cold water and/or the application of cold towels to the neck have been recommended as simple and sustainable alternatives to air-conditioning. However, empirical data to support the efficacy of these interventions for mitigating physiological strain and discomfort in older adults is lacking. To address this knowledge gap, this randomized crossover trial will evaluate the effect of lower limb immersion with and without application of cold towels to the neck on body core temperature, cardiovascular strain and autonomic function, dehydration, and thermal comfort in adults aged 65-85 years exposed to simulated heat wave conditions (38°C, 35% relative humidity) for 6 hours.

Clinical Trial Description

n/a

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Aging
• Heat Stress
• Heat Stress Disorders
• Hyperthermia
• Sprains and Strains
• Syncope

• NCT number: NCT05601713
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: University of Ottawa
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: September 28, 2022
• Completion date: May 4, 2023