Keeping Older People Safe in Hot Weather

Summers in Essex are getting hotter, and heatwaves are now a regular part of the year. Most of us enjoy the sunshine, but hot weather can be dangerous for older people, especially those who live alone, have heart or breathing problems, take certain medicines or are living with dementia.

Here is how to help someone you care about stay safe when the temperature rises.

Why older people are more at risk

As we get older, the body becomes less able to regulate its temperature, and we may not feel thirsty even when we need to drink. Some medicines, such as water tablets, can make dehydration more likely. People with memory problems may not remember to drink or may dress too warmly for the weather.

Keep the home cool

• Close curtains and blinds on windows that get the sun during the day.
• Open windows when it is cooler outside, usually early morning and evening.
• Use a fan, but not as a substitute for drinking and keeping cool.
• Find the coolest room in the house, and spend the hottest part of the day there.

Drink plenty

Encourage regular drinks throughout the day, even without feeling thirsty. Water, diluted squash, milk and tea all count. Foods with a high water content, such as fruit, salad, soup and ice lollies, help too. Avoid too much alcohol and very sugary drinks.

Stay out of the heat

• Avoid going out between 11am and 3pm, the hottest part of the day.
• If going out, wear a hat, loose light clothing and sun cream, and take water.
• Plan shopping and appointments for the morning.

Know the warning signs

Heat exhaustion can include headache, dizziness, confusion, feeling sick, cramps, heavy sweating and a fast pulse. Move the person somewhere cool, give them water, and cool their skin with a damp cloth. If they do not improve within 30 minutes, or show signs of heatstroke (hot, dry skin, confusion, fitting, loss of consciousness), call 999.

Check in more often

During a heatwave, ring or visit older relatives and neighbours daily if you can. Check they are drinking, eating, keeping the house cool and taking their medication as prescribed.

How our carers help in hot weather

During hot spells, Here to Care’s carers keep a closer eye on the people we support: making sure drinks are within easy reach, preparing lighter meals, helping with cool showers or a wash, adjusting curtains and windows, and letting families know if they are worried. For someone living alone, a regular visit can make all the difference.

We provide personal care, companionship and home help and dementia care across Saffron Walden and the surrounding villages, seven days a week.

If you are worried about an older relative this summer, call us on 01799 218190 or get in touch.