Keeping Older Adults Safe During Heatwaves

As temperatures rise during summer, older adults are particularly at risk. Heat can worsen existing health conditions, and in some cases, be life-threatening. Understanding why older people are more vulnerable can help families and communities keep them safe.

Why older adults struggle with heat
Our bodies rely on blood flow and sweating to regulate temperature. As we age, these processes become less efficient, meaning older people store more heat and cool down more slowly. The heart also works harder to balance cooling the body and supplying organs with oxygen, putting extra strain on the cardiovascular system.

Older adults are more likely to have chronic health conditions, such as heart, lung, kidney problems, or diabetes. During heatwaves, these conditions can worsen quickly. Certain medications can also affect the body’s ability to stay cool.

Social factors
Rising energy costs may discourage some older adults from using air conditioning. Others may live alone, have limited mobility, or experience memory or thinking challenges that make it harder to recognize heat risks or remember to drink fluids.

Signs someone is struggling in the heat
Early signs include unusual fatigue, confusion, loss of balance, shortness of breath, or reduced urination. Heat exhaustion can present as heavy sweating, nausea, headache, or muscle cramps. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention if someone has hot, dry skin, slurred speech, fainting, or confusion.

How to stay safe

• Drink plenty of water.
• Stay indoors or in shaded areas during the hottest part of the day.
• Use air conditioning if available. If not, go to cooler public spaces.
• Fans can help, especially when combined with dampening the skin, but above 37ºC they may not be effective.
• Simple measures like immersing hands and forearms in cool water every 30 minutes can reduce body temperature and heart strain.
• Regularly check in on older family members, friends, and neighbours.

Heatwaves can be dangerous, but with awareness and simple precautions, older adults can stay safe and healthy.