Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: 2025 Tips for the Elderly in Preston & South Ribble

🌞 Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: 2025 Tips for the Elderly in Preston & South Ribble

As we experience another summer heatwave here in Preston and South Ribble, it's more important than ever to ensure our elderly and vulnerable loved ones stay safe, comfortable, and well. Rising temperatures can lead to serious health risks like heat exhaustion, dehydration, or heatstroke — especially for older people or those living with long-term conditions.

The good news? With a few simple precautions, the elderly can enjoy the sunshine while staying safe and supported.

💧 1. Keep Hydration Front of Mind

The elderly are more prone to dehydration and may not always feel thirsty. The NHS recommends drinking water regularly throughout the day.

• Aim for 6–8 glasses of fluid daily

• Avoid alcohol and excess caffeine

• Add lemon, cucumber, or mint to make water more enjoyable

🧠 Top tip: Keep a filled water bottle nearby and sip regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.

🌬️ 2. Keep Your Living Space Cool

Even without air conditioning, you can keep your home comfortable:

• Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day

• Open windows during the cooler hours – early morning or late evening

• Use a fan or a cool damp cloth to refresh your skin

• Visit libraries, community centres or shopping centres if your home gets too warm

🔗 Age UK Lancashire and local councils often share “cool spaces” during heatwaves — check for updates in your area.

🧢 3. Dress for the Weather

Choose loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing, such as cotton. This helps reflect heat and keep your body cooler.

✅ Don’t forget:

• A wide-brimmed hat

• UV-protective sunglasses

• Lightweight shoes or sandals

🥗 4. Eat Light, Eat Well

Appetite often decreases in the heat, but eating well is still important.

🍽 Try:

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, yoghurt and salads

• Water-rich foods like cucumber, melon, and tomatoes

• Smaller meals more often if you don’t feel like big portions

⏱️ 5. Avoid Peak Heat

The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm. To stay safe:

• Schedule errands or walks in the early morning or evening

• Stay in the shade or indoors during peak hours

• Take regular breaks and rest if you’re feeling warm or tired

📞 6. Stay Connected

Being alone in a heatwave can be dangerous. Stay in regular contact with:

• Family, friends or neighbours

• Keep your mobile charged and close by

• Call 111 if you feel unwell or need health advice

🌡️ You can also sign up for Met Office heat alerts or ask a loved one to keep you informed.

🚨 Spot the Signs of Heat-Related Illness

It’s important to know when the heat might be affecting your health. Watch for:

• Dark yellow or strong-smelling urine

• Dizziness, weakness or light-headedness

• Headache or confusion

• Muscle cramps

• Dry mouth or lips

• Not urinating as frequently

What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms

If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration:

• Move to a cool or shaded place

• Sip water slowly

• Use a cool damp cloth or take a tepid shower

• Loosen clothing and rest

• Call 111 if symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes

🌻 Supporting the Elderly to Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer can still be a joyful time — filled with fresh air, bright days, and community. At Right at Home Preston, our CareGivers are fully trained to support clients during hot weather: helping with hydration, personal care, keeping homes cool, and monitoring wellbeing.

If you or a loved one would benefit from extra support this summer, we’re here to help. 💙

📚 Useful Resources

• NHS – How to cope in hot weather

• Age UK – Staying cool in a heatwave

• Gov.uk – Beat the Heat

• Met Office – Heat health advice