MOOC FOR INFORMAL CAREGIVERS-FINAL-EN

INTRODUCTION

In this tool we will address a number of measures that can be taken to prevent heat-stress, or to reduce its complications. Each page starts with a short introduction, and sometimes with a videoclip. After that, you will be asked to answer some questions. Just click on the card or the answer you think is right, and you will get feedback immediately. The video's will start when you click on them.

  To start with, please watch the following 3 videos:

The first is from The Economist and gives in 14 minutes an overall view on heatwaves and its effects:

Do you think 14 minutes is too long? Then look at this shorter one:

The videos are about the effects of heatwaves: on nature, and infrastructure but also on people. During this course, we will focus on the effects of extreme heat and heatwaves on people and what you can do for yourself, your loved ones and your living environment to prevent the negative effects of extreme heat on your health. We will start with the effects of heat on the human body. Humans are remarkably adapted to cope with heat compared to many other animals, primarily due to a combination of physiological and behavioural factors. One key adaptation is our ability to sweat efficiently, which allows us to dissipate heat through evaporation. Humans have a high density of sweat glands across our skin, making this process highly effective in cooling us down, even in extreme heat.

Additionally, our relatively hairless skin enhances the effectiveness of sweating. Unlike many animals that rely on panting or limited sweating through fur, humans can maintain a stable body temperature over extended periods of physical activity, even in hot climates.
Another crucial factor is our upright posture, which reduces the surface area exposed to direct sunlight and increases exposure to cooling air currents. This, combined with our ability to regulate behaviour, such as seeking shade, hydrating, and adjusting activity levels, further enhances our heat tolerance. These adaptations have allowed humans to survive and thrive in a wide range of environments, from the blazing heat of deserts to the humidity of tropical regions.

Despite our remarkable ability to stay cool, these adaptations are sometimes not enough. In extreme heat or during prolonged exposure without adequate hydration or rest, the body can struggle to maintain a safe core temperature. This can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which are potentially life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Even with our advanced cooling mechanisms, it’s essential to recognize the limits of human heat tolerance.

This the end of chapter 1. If you want to move foreward to chapter 2, please push the arrow on your right side.