Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: 2025 Tips for the Elderly in Liverpool & Merseyside

Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: 2025 Tips for the Elderly in Liverpool & Merseyside

As we experience another summer heatwave here in Liverpool and Merseyside, it’s more important than ever to ensure that our elderly and vulnerable loved ones stay safe, well, and comfortable. High temperatures can pose serious health risks such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, or heatstroke — especially for the elderly and those living with health conditions.

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

1. Keep Hydration Front of Mind

Elderly people may not always feel thirsty, even when their bodies need fluids. The NHS recommends drinking water regularly throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Aim for 6–8 glasses of fluid daily
- Avoid alcohol and excess caffeine
- Add slices of lemon, cucumber or berries to water to make it more enjoyable
Top Tip: Keep a bottle of water nearby and sip throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty.

2. Keep Your Living Space Cool

Even without air conditioning, there are ways to stay cool indoors:
- Keep curtains or blinds closed 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 help reduce body temperature
- Visit community centres, libraries, or shopping centres with air conditioning
Check with Age UK or your local council for nearby “cool spaces” available during heatwaves.

3. Dress for the Weather

Choose loose, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton. This helps to reflect heat and allow your body to stay cool.
Don’t forget:
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Comfortable, lightweight shoes
- Sunglasses for UV protection

4. Eat Light, Eat Well

Appetite can decrease in hot weather, but it’s still important to eat regular meals.
Include:
- Fresh fruit, vegetables, yoghurt and light meals
- Water-rich foods like melon, cucumber, and tomatoes
- Light snacks throughout the day instead of large, hot meals

5. Avoid Peak Heat

The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm, so it’s best to:
- Stay indoors or in the shade during these hours
- Run errands or take walks early in the morning or late evening
- Rest often and listen to your body — especially if you feel tired or dizzy

6. Stay in Touch

Let someone know your daily routine and check in regularly.
- Keep in touch with family, friends, or neighbours
- Have a charged phone nearby in case of emergencies
- If you feel unwell, don’t hesitate to call 111 or your GP
Sign up for Met Office heat alerts or ask a relative to help you track weather warnings.

🚨 Spot the Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Be aware of signs that the heat may be affecting your health:
- Dark yellow or strong-smelling urine
- Dizziness, weakness, or light-headedness
- Headache
- Feeling confused or overly tired
- Muscle cramps
- Dry mouth, lips, or eyes
- Reduced urination

What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms

Take the following steps immediately:
- Move to a cooler, shaded place
- Sip water slowly
- Use a cool damp cloth on your body or take a tepid shower
- Loosen clothing and lie down
- If symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes, call NHS 111

Supporting the Elderly to Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer can still be a joyful time. At Right at Home South Liverpool, our CareGivers are here to help with hydration, comfort, and wellbeing during hot weather. If you or someone you know needs extra support, we’re here to help.

Useful Resources

- NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/

- Age UK: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/mind-body/staying-cool-in-a-heatwave/

- Gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/beat-the-heat-staying-safe-in-hot-weather

- Met Office: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/seasonal-advice/your-health/older-people