Coping with hot weather for older people

Summary

• During hot weather, older people have a greater risk of getting sick.  
• Some people may experience the effects of hot weather more than others. 
• It’s important to know what these effects are, who is at risk and what you can do. 
• Heatstroke is a medical emergency. 
• Know the signs and get treatment straight away. 

Read more about hot weather and heatwaves

Preparing for hot weather

• Check window coverings, fans or air-conditioners are in good condition. 
• Keep windows, curtains and blinds closed to reduce heat. If cooler outside, open windows to allow fresh air inside.
• Check the air-conditioner or heat pump is on ‘cool’ before turning it on. 
• Look into energy bill concessions. Find out more at www.concessions.tas.gov.au or call 1300 135 513. 
• If you need to go outside during the day, plan to go in the cooler times of the day.
• Review which room is coolest at night, consider moving rooms during hot weather if safe to do so.
• Ensure you have supplies of food and medication at home to last up to a week if hot weather is forecast.

Risks for older people

You may have a greater risk of heat-related illness if: 

• you live alone 
• have a medical condition  
• take certain medicines 
• are frail 
• can’t move easily 
• have dementia 
• have a mental health condition.

Caring for an older person during extreme heat

• Carers are encouraged to check on an older person on days forecast for hot weather. Especially if they live alone.  
• Visit them if you can, rather than just talking on the phone.  
• Ensure they are drinking enough water, see below for more advice on eating and drinking. 
• Look for any changes to their physical condition. 
• Have plans to keep them cool if there is a power outage. 
• Check if their phone and devices such as safety alarm pendant will work if there is no electricity. 
• It is very important to take care of yourself too. 

Eating and drinking during hot weather

• Older people may not always be able to tell when they are thirsty. 
• Check that you have water in the fridge and drink regularly. 
• Avoid drinking tea, coffee or alcohol. 
• Ensure you have a bottle of water close by to avoid becoming dehydrated. 
• Try to eat smaller meals, more often during hot weather.  
• Use the stove or oven in your kitchen as little as possible.
• Ensure that food needing refrigeration is properly stored and defrost frozen foods in the fridge not on the kitchen bench.

Clothing and personal aids during hot weather

• Older people have reduced circulation and sweat less. 
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured and loose-fitting clothing.  
• Natural fibres like cotton or linen are best. Avoid synthetic or nylon fabrics. 
• Use sunscreen (minimum SPF30+) even if you are going outside for a short time. 
• Apply it under the sleeves and collar of a blouse or shirt to cover the neck. 
• Also apply it on legs and feet if wearing shorts or sandals. 
• Wear a hat that shades the face, neck and ears. 
• Always wear sunglasses outside. 
• Take off sunglasses before going inside and pause inside to help eyes adjust to change in light and prevent an accident.
• Check that a wheelchair, walker or other metal equipment does not become hot to avoid a burn. 

Taking medication and hot weather

• Ensure you continue to take prescribed medicines during hot weather. 
• Some medicines can make you more prone to sunburn and heat stress. 
• Take extra care to watch for signs of becoming affected by the heat. 
• Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you need more advice about medicines you are taking. 

Heat-related symptoms in older people

Know the signs of heat-related illness, look out for symptoms including: 

• increased thirst 
• tiredness 
• feeling dizzy or faint 
• confusion
• headache
• muscle spasms or cramps 
• loss of appetite. 

What to do for heat-related symptoms

• Take steps to cool down straight away. 
• Use cool baths or showers, or place cool, wet towels on the neck and underarms. 
• For more information about heat-related illness go to the Healthdirect website.

Resources for aged care providers

• Keep informed about current alerts on the TasALERT website
• Find out about weather warnings in Tasmania from the Bureau of Meteorology
• Checklists - what to do before and during a heatwave 
  • Caring for older people in heatwaves – residential aged care
  • Caring for older people in heatwaves – home care and CHSP
• Australian Government information on preparing for an emergency event including high-risk weather 
  • Service continuity and emergency events in aged care
• Poster
  • Display the Stay Healthy in the Heat A3 Poster