Hertfordshire-based homecare provider Abbots Care is warning that many older people are unknowingly putting themselves at risk during the current heatwave after finding heating still switched on in clients' homes because timers have been left running.
The care company has also revealed that older people who have adult social care packages are often reluctant to use electric fans because they worry about rising energy bills, leaving them even more vulnerable to dangerous temperatures.
Abbots Care has launched a Keep your Cool campaign to help clients, families and care workers to stay safe during periods of extreme heat, while encouraging people to check in on elderly and vulnerable neighbours who may be struggling to keep cool.
The warning comes as official guidance from the UK Health Security Agency identifies older people, those with underlying health conditions, people taking certain medications, individuals with reduced mobility and people living alone as being among those most at risk during periods of extreme heat. The guidance also advises carers to check that heating is switched off, keep homes cool and ensure people stay well hydrated.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics and UK Health Security Agency also highlight the impact of hot weather on older people. During the 2022 heat periods there were 3,271 excess deaths in England and Wales, with people aged 70 and over disproportionately affected.
Sarah Hurley, Care Director at Abbots Care, said: "One of the biggest challenges is that many older people simply don't think they're at risk. They often don't feel particularly hot, may be reluctant to open windows, and if they're less mobile, they may not be going outside and don't appreciate just how high the temperature has become.
"Many of our care workers arrive to find heating still running on timers even during extremely hot weather. We also meet older people who don't want to switch on a fan because they're worried about how much electricity it will use. We completely understand those concerns, but during periods of extreme heat staying cool has to come first.
"Turning the heating off, opening windows when it's cooler outside, encouraging people to drink regularly and helping them stay cool are simple interventions that can make a significant difference.
"With our Keep your Cool campaign, we're also encouraging families, friends and neighbours to check in on older people during hot weather. A quick visit, making sure someone has a cold drink, opening a window or switching off the heating could genuinely save a life.
"Simple cooling techniques can also be incredibly effective. Something as straightforward as placing your feet in cool water, using a damp flannel on the wrists or neck, or keeping a chilled cloth nearby can help older people stay comfortable and reduce the risks associated with extreme heat.
"It is also very important to keep drinks visible and accessible because many older people simply forget to drink."
Older people are particularly vulnerable during periods of high temperatures because their bodies become less able to regulate temperature as they age. Many are also living with underlying health conditions, reduced mobility or taking medications that can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Katie Huby, Community Nurse Assessor at Abbots Care, said: "Some medications can increase the risk of becoming unwell during hot weather, including certain antidepressants, medicines used to treat heart disease and high blood pressure, and some allergy medications. High temperatures can affect the way some medicines work and may also impair the body's ability to regulate body temperature.
"It is important that medicines are stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and that anyone with concerns speaks to their pharmacist or GP."
The home-care provider's key heat safety advice for older adults is:
Keep living spaces cool
Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day and open windows during the cooler morning and evening where it is safe to do so. Switch off heating and use fans where appropriate while temperatures remain below 35C.
Maintain regular hydration
Encourage frequent drinks of water or diluted squash even if the person does not feel thirsty. Offer water-rich foods such as fruit, yoghurt and soups. Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration, and keep drinks visible and within easy reach.
Dress for the weather
Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. If going outdoors, wear a hat and seek shade wherever possible.
Avoid the hottest part of the day
Where possible, older adults should avoid going outside between 11am and 3pm. If they do need to go out, keep journeys short and take regular breaks in cool or shaded areas.
Know the warning signs
Families and carers should look out for dizziness, confusion, headaches, nausea, rapid heartbeat or reduced urination, as these may indicate heat exhaustion and require prompt attention.
Other simple ways to stay comfortable include:
- Place feet in cool (not ice-cold) water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Use a cool, damp flannel on the neck, wrists, temples or behind the knees.
- Lightly mist the skin with water and sit near a fan.
- Freeze a hot water bottle filled with water and wrap it in a towel to place near the feet at night.
- Chill pillowcases or flannels in the fridge before bedtime.
- Eat smaller, lighter meals.
- Keep bedroom curtains closed during the day to reduce overnight heat build-up.
- Encourage gentle movement of feet and ankles to reduce swelling.
- Avoid very cold showers, which can reduce the body's natural cooling response.
Abbots Care is also reminding families and care teams to review medications with a GP or pharmacist where appropriate, as some prescriptions can increase sensitivity to heat. Anyone showing signs of heat stroke, including collapse, severe confusion or very hot skin, should receive immediate emergency medical attention by calling 999.
