How to stay healthy and safe in hot weather for older adults
As the warmer weather arrives here in the UK, it’s important to know how to stay healthy and safe in hot weather for older adults. While sunshine can be lovely, it also brings risks, especially for older people who may be more affected by the heat. At Caremark York, we understand these challenges, which is why we’ve put together this guide on how to stay healthy and safe in hot weather for older adults, helping you or your loved ones stay comfortable, well and supported this summer.
Understanding the risks
Older people are more at risk in hot weather because their bodies are less able to regulate temperature effectively. Certain medical conditions and medications can also make it harder to stay cool or to recognise when the body is overheating. As a result, older people are more susceptible to dehydration, heat exhaustion and in more serious cases, heatstroke. These conditions can develop quickly, so taking preventive measures is important.
How to stay cool and safe in the heat
One of the best ways to protect your health during hot weather is to avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day. The sun tends to be at its strongest between 11am and 3pm, so where possible, it’s a good idea to stay indoors or in the shade during these hours. If you need to go out, try to do so earlier in the morning or later in the evening, when it is cooler.
Staying hydrated is also important. You should aim to drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen without you realising it. Try to avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as those containing caffeine, alcohol or high levels of sugar. The best thing to do is to stick to water!
Wearing appropriate clothing can also help to stay healthy and safe in the hot weather. Loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in light colours is ideal for staying cool. Natural fabrics such as cotton and linen are especially breathable. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can provide additional protection when outside, shielding your face and eyes from the sun.
Using sun cream is another crucial step. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin and reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors for long periods. Don’t forget easily missed areas like your ears, the back of your neck and the tops of your feet. This will ensure you keep your skin safe from the hot weather.
Keeping your living space cool is equally important. During the day, close curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight. If it’s safe to do so, open windows in the early morning or evening to let in cooler air. Electric fans can help circulate air around the home. It’s a good idea to avoid using ovens or other appliances that might raise the room temperature and make it more stuffy.
What to look out for heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Knowing the signs of heat-related illness can help you act quickly if you or someone you know begins to feel unwell. Symptoms to watch out for heat exhaustion:
- Excessive sweating
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
If you or someone exhibits these symptoms, you should:
- Move them to a cool place.
- Remove unnecessary clothing like a jacket or socks.
- Get them to drink a sports drink or cool water.
- Cool their skin by spraying or sponging them with cool water and fanning them.
They should cool down and start to feel better in 30 minutes.
However, if they’re still unwell after 30 minutes and they have:
- Very high temperature
- Hot skin, but they’re no longer sweating and might look red
- A fast heartbeat
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- Confusion and lack of coordination
- A seizure or fit
- Loss of consciousness
You should seek medical help by calling 999 and await further instructions from the operators whilst you’re waiting for them to arrive.
We’re here to support you
At Caremark York, we’re here to help our customers stay healthy and safe all year round. Our compassionate Care Assistants are trained to spot signs of heat-related illness and support clients in staying cool, hydrated and well during summer.
During daily visits, they’ll ensure there’s always a drink left with you that’s within easy reach, open windows and doors where possible to let in fresh air and help keep your home comfortable.
From preparing cold meals and encouraging regular sips of water to supporting with sun protection, we’re here to help.
If you or a loved one could use some extra support during the warmer months, get in touch with our friendly team today. Whether it’s day-to-day help or respite care, we’re always here with a helping hand.
About Caremark York
At Caremark York, we’re committed to helping older adults stay safe, healthy and independent, especially during the warmer months. Our daily visits provide tailored support to help you or your loved one remain comfortably active while managing the risks of hot weather.