The summer months bring unique challenges for older people, particularly those in residential care settings who may have limited mobility, existing health conditions, or cognitive impairments. 

Adults over 75 (and particularly women) are vulnerable to high temperatures for several reasons:

• Ageing bodies struggle to regulate temperature as efficiently, making it harder to stay cool
• Common medications, such as diuretics and certain blood pressure tablets, can affect hydration levels
• Mobility or cognitive challenges may prevent residents from recognising their own discomfort or adjusting their environment
• The risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke increases significantly in extreme temperatures

Understanding the dangers of hot weather and taking proactive steps can make a huge difference to residents’ well-being during the summer months. 

Here, we offer a guide to the actions you can take to ensure your residents and staff are comfortable, safe and healthy when the temperatures rise.

Staying well-hydrated is essential. But encouraging fluid intake can be a challenge, especially for residents who may not feel thirsty or who struggle with swallowing. Here are some practical ways to boost hydration:

• Offer a variety of drinks throughout the day, as well as water. Juices, herbal and fruit teas, milk, and electrolyte-rich drinks can all help. A reduced intake of tea and coffee may also be helpful, as caffeine can be dehydrating
• Set up hydration stations and ensure accessible jugs are available in both communal and private areas
• Use hydration support products such as easy-grip cups, straws, or spill-proof bottles designed for care environments
• Serve water-rich foods like melon, cucumber, oranges, and jelly

Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, dark urine, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion.

Shop aids for eating and drinking

Maintaining a cool indoor environment can be lifesaving during a heatwave. Even simple adjustments can make a big impact:

• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to reduce heat build-up
• Open windows early in the morning or later in the evening to get cool air to circulate
• Position beds away from direct sunlight, and consider cooling aids such as gel pads or moisture-wicking bedding to enhance comfort
• Use fans safely, ensuring they are placed out of reach and cleaned regularly to avoid circulating dust and allergens

Clothing and personal care can also play a vital role in helping residents stay cool. Ensure residents have light, breathable clothes in fabrics like linen and cotton, and encourage regular washing or sponge baths to keep skin clean and fresh. Barrier creams will help reduce the risk of heat rash in areas prone to moisture or friction. 

And when it comes to kitting out your staff, choose lightweight, breathable personal protective equipment (PPE) where possible.

During hot weather, it’s vital to stay vigilant and alert to any concerning symptoms:

• Conduct regular wellbeing and temperature checks, especially for those with existing health concerns
• Look for early signs of heat-related illness, such as unusual tiredness, irritability, or loss of appetite
• Promote light activity in the morning or evening when it’s cooler, and avoid outdoor activity during peak heat

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can become medical emergencies, so it’s important to know the danger signs:

• Heat exhaustion: intense thirst, dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, clammy skin, rapid pulse
• Heatstroke: temperature of 40°C or above, confusion, agitation, flushed or dry skin, nausea, rapid breathing, racing heart

If you suspect a resident may have heatstroke, act quickly – they will need immediate medical attention.

Warm, humid conditions can accelerate bacterial growth and lead to unpleasant odours, so it’s important you maintain your usual high standards of hygiene. 

• Use appropriate cleaning products that are effective in warm environments
• Ensure PPE is used correctly and changed regularly to prevent cross-contamination

Stock up on PPE

Your team’s health is just as important in hot weather, so remember to take the following actions:

• Encourage staff to stay hydrated and take regular breaks in cooler areas
• Rotate duties to allow cooling-off time, especially for those working in PPE
• Provide fans or cooling aids in staff areas and consider flexible rotas during extreme heat

Prepare your care environment for the summer months with our range of medical supplies. Whether you need aids for eating and drinking, high-quality PPE or cleaning products that deliver superior results, here you’ll find a wide range of premium healthcare supplies and equipment to support both residents and staff.

And with speedy delivery, competitive pricing to give you the best possible value, and a commitment to excellent customer service, we’re more than a supplier – we’re your partner in maintaining clean, safe, and healthy environments.