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Caring for older people during a heatwave

Hot weather can pose serious health risks for older people, particularly during periods of extreme heat.

While many of us welcome warmer, brighter weather, heatwaves can be dangerous for older adults and people with long-term health conditions. People aged 65 and over, those living alone, and those with heart problems, breathing difficulties, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease or mobility issues may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

During very hot weather, the main risks include:

• Dehydration from not drinking enough fluids
• Overheating, which can worsen existing heart or breathing conditions
• Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

With some simple planning and regular checks, families and carers can help older loved ones stay safer, cooler and more comfortable during hot weather.

Keeping cool at home

During a heatwave, there are several simple ways to help keep the home cooler and reduce the risk of overheating.

Keep out of the sun

Try to identify the coolest room in the home and encourage your loved one to spend more time there during the hottest parts of the day.

Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day, especially in rooms that get direct sunlight. Light-coloured curtains can help reflect some of the sun’s heat and keep rooms cooler.

Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm. If your loved one does need to go out, encourage them to stay in the shade, wear suitable sun protection and go out earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it is cooler.

Let cooler air in at the right time

If it is hotter outside than inside, keep windows closed during the day to stop warm air from coming in.

Once the temperature outside has cooled, usually in the evening or early morning, open windows where safe to do so and allow cooler air to circulate through the home.

Use fans safely

Fans can help some people feel cooler, especially when used with other cooling methods. However, during extreme heat, fans may become less effective if they are simply moving warm air around.

Try placing a bowl of cold water or ice in front of a fan to help cool the air. Make sure any wires or equipment are positioned safely to reduce trip hazards.

Dress for the weather

Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from cotton or linen can help keep the body cooler. Light-coloured clothing is usually better than dark clothing in hot weather.

If going outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sun cream. It is also important to avoid too many layers, especially for older people who may not always recognise when they are overheating.

Stay hydrated

Encourage regular drinks throughout the day, even if your loved one does not feel particularly thirsty. Water, squash and other cool drinks can all help.

It can also be helpful to keep a drink nearby at all times, especially beside a favourite chair or bed.

Alcohol should be avoided or limited during hot weather, as it can increase the risk of dehydration. If your loved one has been advised to restrict fluids for a medical reason, speak to a healthcare professional for specific guidance.

Eat lighter meals

Eating smaller, lighter meals can feel more comfortable during hot weather.

Foods with a high water content, such as cucumber, lettuce, celery, peppers, strawberries, melon and grapefruit, can help support hydration alongside regular drinks.

Rest when needed

It is good to stay active, but strenuous activity should be avoided during very hot weather, especially between 11am and 3pm.

Encourage your loved one to rest when needed and avoid rushing household tasks, gardening or errands during the hottest part of the day.

Cool the body down

Cool showers, baths or foot baths can help regulate body temperature. Spritzing the face, neck and arms with cool water can also provide relief.

A cool, damp cloth on the back of the neck or wrists may also help someone feel more comfortable.

Plan ahead

Keep an eye on weather forecasts and heat-health alerts so you can prepare in advance.

It is also worth checking that your loved one has:

• Enough medication
• Easy access to drinks
• Light meals available
• A working fan, if needed
• Someone checking in regularly
• A plan in place if they begin to feel unwell

People with heart problems, breathing difficulties or other serious health conditions may find their symptoms worsen in hot weather, so it is important to make sure support is in place.

Recognising the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can be serious, particularly for older people.

Signs of heat exhaustion can include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Tiredness or weakness
• Feeling sick or being sick
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Thirst
• A fast pulse
• High temperature

If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cooler place, encourage them to rest, remove unnecessary layers and give them cool drinks if they are able to drink safely.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call 999 if someone is very confused, has a seizure, loses consciousness, has hot dry skin, is not improving after cooling down, or you are seriously concerned.

Looking out for each other

With a little planning and care, we can help older loved ones stay safer and more comfortable during periods of extreme heat.

Regular check-ins, simple home adjustments and early action if someone feels unwell can make a real difference.

For more advice and help with home care and live-in care, call 01308 459204 or contact us here.

Or email us today: contact@angelcarers.com