Stay cool this summer

As the summer weather is heating up, we all need to make sure we are keeping safe and well.

We all look forward to some sunshine over the summer but it is worth remembering that when the temperature goes up it can present health risks for everyone. 

The importance of staying cool and keeping well in hot weather cannot be over-estimated, as we get older way me become more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. 

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both life-threatening conditions which can develop rapidly if left untreated. All of us, neighbours, family and friends should provide whatever support we can for older people, particularly those living alone. 

Age UK offers a range of free information and advice designed to help older people live well during the summer months and protect themselves when the temperature soars.  

When you're out and about

• Don’t spend too much time outside at the hottest time of the day (11am-3pm) when the sun’s at its Try and keep in the shade when you can.
• It’s a good idea to carry a bottle of water with you when you go out and about and you could also wear a sun
• Keep an eye on the forecast for any hot weather warnings and to make sure you don’t get caught out by unseasonably warm
• Look after your skin – use a sun cream of at least SPF15 and apply it
• Make sure you don’t miss a spot with the sun cream (bald patches tend to be overlooked).
• Be careful, even when it’s not UV levels can still be harmful when it's cloudy out.
• Talk to your optician about prescription Make sure any sunglasses you wear have a CE mark and UV400 label.
• Make sure you get enough vitamin D – you usually get this from short stints in the sun over the spring and summer

When you're at home

• Keep blinds down (especially in rooms you’re not using) and windows closed when it’s cooler inside than
• A damp cloth or a splash of water on the back of your neck is better at cooling you down than a
• Light-coloured, lightweight cotton clothing keeps you
• Check how you’re storing your medication when it gets particularly hot - most should be kept below 25°C so it might be best to keep them in the fridge when it's really
• Check your skin every few Be particularly careful of moles. If you notice any changes to the colour or shape, or if they bleed, don’t hesitate to go and talk to your doctor.
• Drink plenty to avoid getting dehydrated and feeling lousy, and eat even if you’re not feeling too

Be extra careful

• Watch out for signs of dehydration – confusion, cramps, dark urine and feeling You don’t have to feel thirsty to be dehydrated.
• Be careful to avoid heat exhaustion – the symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea and a fast pulse. If you feel unwell, lie down in a cool room, drink plenty of water and cool yourself with a splash of
• Heat exhaustion could lead to Symptoms include falling unconscious and seizures. Call 999 immediately if you think you or someone might have heatstroke.
• If you know it’s going to be particularly hot and you think you might struggle, ask someone to check on Equally, check on someone else you think might struggle in the heat.