Fans May Backfire for Seniors in Extreme Heat, Shocking Study Finds

As the summer heat continues to scorch New York City, many residents are turning to electric fans for relief. However, a recent study has revealed a shocking discovery - fans may actually be doing more harm than good for older adults in certain heat conditions.

The study, conducted by researchers in Australia and Canada, tested the effects of electric fans on adults aged 60 and older under both dry and humid heat. In dry heat conditions, the researchers found that fan use caused participants' core body temperatures to rise by 0.5°F, and they reported feeling hotter and less comfortable overall. This suggests that rather than cooling the body, the fan was actually pushing heat into it, putting seniors at greater risk of heat stroke and other serious health problems.

In contrast, the study found that fans provided some relief in humid heat, slightly lowering core temperatures and boosting sweating, making participants feel cooler and more comfortable. However, the researchers caution that the benefits of fans in humid heat may not outweigh the potential dangers in dry heat, especially for those with heart disease.

The findings challenge current CDC guidelines that advise against using fans when temperatures exceed 90°F, and highlight the importance of considering weather conditions when choosing cooling strategies, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly.