As the UK braces for a summer sizzler and frequent heat health alerts in place, we encourage families to keep a close eye on older relatives and neighbours.
While sun-seekers may be reaching for their beach towels, health professionals are warning of serious risks for older adults, who are more vulnerable to dehydration and heatstroke during extreme heat.
Sabah Shah, Clinical Lead here at The Good Care Group, advises people to stay connected with elderly loved ones during the warm weather – and to offer a helping hand where needed. Here, Sabah has shared her top tips and warning signs to look out for over the coming days:
1. Stay hydrated
“One of the simplest but most powerful things older adults can do is sip water regularly – even if they don’t feel thirsty. Aim for six to eight glasses a day,” says Sabah.
“Make water easily accessible – place a lightweight jug or bottle near their favourite chair, set alarms to remind them to drink, or use a water bottle marked with times throughout the day.”
“Many older adults don’t realise that their much loved brew can actually dehydrate them. Smoothies, diluted juice, sports drinks, or fruit juices are better options – and offering variety can help increase intake so stock the fridge.”
“Fluids can come from food too – melon, cucumber, soups, broths, and casseroles all count towards daily hydration.”
2. A banana a day keeps the doctor away
“When we sweat, we lose vital electrolytes including things like potassium – which bananas are packed with so it’s well worth adding in a banana or two throughout the day. They are also delicious slightly chilled, which can help keep you cool.”
3. Stay active and cool
“Older adults don’t need to be cooped up indoors during hot weather as we all can benefit from Vitamin D exposure, but they do need to be cautious. Factor in some light walking around the garden or local park or seated exercises in the shade.”
“I always advise doing any physical activity early in the morning or in the evening, when temperatures are lower.”
“Staying cool doesn’t have to mean air conditioning. Keeping curtains drawn during peak sun, wearing light layers, and using a handheld fan or damp cloth can make a big difference. Ventilation is key so have bedroom windows open during the day to help with air circulation aiding a cooler night’s sleep.”
4. Spot the signs of dehydration
“In extreme heat, it’s especially important to look out for signs of dehydration or heat stress – things like confusion, dry mouth, dizziness or fatigue. These can be early warning signs, and should never be ignored.”
“Dehydration can make UTIs both more likely and more severe. In hot weather, people often sweat more and drink less, leading to concentrated urine, which irritates the bladder providing a more welcoming environment for bacterial growth. So staying well-hydrated is even more important for helping flush bacteria from the urinary tract and avoiding unwanted hospital visits.”
5. A sun cream spritz to keep the UV rays at bay
“Older adults tend to have thinner, more sensitive skin and can be very prone to sun damage -high SPF sunscreen sprays and mists are a must, even for brief periods outside soaking up the rays. Don’t forget harder to reach areas like the backs of legs, back of the neck and ears.”
Learn more about how our professional live-in, hourly or respite care services can help people continue living safely and comfortably at home.
