Extreme heat linked to poor decisions, poor thinking

If you’ve ever felt like you just can’t remember to get any work done when it’s hot outside, you may just have a point.

A new study published by Harvard researchers shows how extreme heat can take a toll on our mental ability — and the results aren’t positive.

The research was conducted during one of the hottest heat waves in Boston in July 2016 and studied the cognitive performance among students. Forty-four students took part in the study, with half located in a brick building with air conditioning and the rest in a building without air conditioning. The study was done over a period of 12 days, and researchers found that those exposed to extreme heat without air conditioning performed 13 percent worse on tests.

A statement released from Harvard this week detailed how it’s commonly known that the young and elderly are most susceptible to the heat, but that this study proves that all walks of life can be negatively impacted by extreme heat.

This study backs up the importance of taking frequent breaks and drinking plenty of water when exposed to heat for extended periods of time.

The study also bridges a link between parents who can’t afford air conditioning and their children’s poor performance in school.

Stay with ABC 17 Stormtrack as we continue to monitor the ongoing heat wave and follow us on Twitter @ABC17Stormtrack.