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Keeping Cool During Heatwaves: Tips for Elderly and Dementia Care in Bristol
Friday 27th June 2025
With temperatures soaring across the UK, heat health warnings have been issued to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly and those living with dementia. In this blog, we provide essential tips on how to keep cool, hydrated, and safe during a heatwave, specifically for dementia patients in Bristol. From hydration advice to cooling techniques, make sure your loved ones remain comfortable throughout this challenging weather.
As the UK faces a significant rise in temperatures, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat health alerts for Southern parts of England. From Friday at 12:00 BST to Tuesday at 18:00 BST, temperatures are expected to soar above 30°C, with the peak of the heat likely to reach 34°C or 35°C in regions such as London and Cambridge on Monday.
Why It Matters: Vulnerable Individuals at Higher Risk
The elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves. With humid nights expected, temperatures may not fall below 20°C, which could cause discomfort and disrupt sleep. This makes it essential to take precautions to keep them safe, as the hot weather could lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke.
Dehydration in the elderly is especially concerning because older adults may not feel thirsty or may be less aware of the need to hydrate. This can lead to a higher risk of dehydration, which can cause serious complications.
Symptoms of Dehydration in the Elderly
It’s important to recognise the signs of dehydration early. Common symptoms in elderly individuals may include:
• Dry mouth and tongue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or confusion
• Dark-coloured urine (or reduced urine output)
• Sunken eyes
• Dry skin or skin that doesn’t bounce back when pinched
• Rapid heartbeat or breathing
• Headache
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get them hydrated immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
Tips to Safeguard the Elderly and Vulnerable
1. Stay Hydrated: Make sure that elderly individuals are drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Offer water, herbal teas, and fruit juices. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can lead to dehydration. Remind them to drink even if they don’t feel thirsty. Aim for 6-8 glasses minimum a day, and more if sweating a lot.
2. Avoid the Heat: Keep elderly people indoors during the hottest parts of the day (usually 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM). Use fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats to help keep the indoor environment comfortable. If possible, try using a freestanding fan for a 24-hour period—this costs only 15p-31p, according to the Energy Saving Trust. If you place the fan in front of an open window, it can help bring fresh air from outside into the room, as long as it's cooler outside.
3. Cooling Strategies:
o Use cool cloths or ice packs (wrapped in teatowels) on the forehead, neck, or wrists to help regulate body temperature.
o Place ice cubes in front of the fan to cool the air being blown in your direction.
o Use more than one fan to create a cross-current of air to enhance cooling.
o Keep curtains drawn during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun. When the sun goes down and temperatures cool, open windows and curtains to allow fresh air to circulate and help cool the room.
4. Comfortable Sleeping Conditions: If possible, use fans or air conditioning at night. Keep the windows open for airflow if it’s safe to do so. Ensure that bed linens are light and breathable. Consider filling a hot water bottle with cold water to help cool down at night.
5. Dress Appropriately: Encourage the wearing of loose, lightweight, and light-coloured clothing. Linen and cotton are particularly good as they are breathable and help the body cool naturally.
6. Cool Foods: If the heat is unbearable, encourage the consumption of cool, hydrating foods such as melon, strawberries, cucumber, and ice lollies. You can also make watered-down milkshakes or smoothies to help hydrate and cool the body.
7. Monitor Symptoms: Be alert for signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat) or heatstroke (confusion, loss of consciousness). Both conditions require immediate attention and medical intervention.
8. Check-In Regularly: Daily welfare checks on elderly relatives, friends, or neighbours can make a significant difference in ensuring their safety. Offer to help with daily tasks like getting water or moving to a cooler space.
9. If You Must Go Outside: When outside in the heat, use an umbrella to create shade and reduce direct exposure to the sun. Limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day.
What Else Can You Do?
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and any updates from the UKHSA.
• Help Others Stay Cool: Share this information with friends, family, and your community to ensure no one is left vulnerable.
As we face the challenges posed by rising temperatures and prolonged heat, we must come together to safeguard those most at risk. Be proactive in supporting vulnerable individuals and keep their wellbeing a priority throughout this heatwave.