Cooling methods to help elderly during heat waves
Heat Waves in the Elderly: Reducing Thermal and Cardiovascular Consequences
NA · University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT05484739
This study is testing different cooling methods to see which one helps older adults stay safe and healthy during heat waves.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT05484739 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of various cooling modalities in reducing cardiovascular stress in elderly individuals during heat wave conditions. It focuses on two specific heat wave scenarios: hot and humid, and very hot and dry, replicating past extreme weather events. Participants aged 65 and older will be exposed to different cooling methods, including no cooling, water spray, fan use, and a combination of both, while their cardiovascular and thermal responses are monitored. The goal is to determine which cooling method is most effective in protecting the elderly from heat-related cardiovascular issues.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are elderly individuals aged 65 and older who do not have significant underlying medical conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with known heart disease or other chronic medical conditions requiring regular therapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce heat-related cardiovascular stress and improve safety for elderly individuals during extreme heat events.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using cooling modalities is not widely tested in this specific context, similar studies have shown promise in reducing heat stress in vulnerable populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 65 years of age or older * Free of any significant underlying medical problems based upon a detailed medical history and physical exam Exclusion Criteria: * Known heart disease * Other chronic medical conditions requiring regular medical therapy including cancer, diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, and uncontrolled hypercholesterolemia etc; * Abnormality detected on routine screening suggestive of provokable ischemia or previously undetected cardiac disease or resting left bundle branch block on screening electrocardiogram. * Current smokers, as well as individuals who regularly smoked within the past 3 years * Subject with a body mass index ≥31 kg/m2 * Pregnant individuals
Where this trial is running
Dallas, Texas
- Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas — Dallas, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Rachel Cottle, PhD
- Email: RachelCottle@texashealth.org
- Phone: 214-345-6557
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Aging, Hyperthermia, aging, heat wave, cardiovascular, low-energy cooling