Helping our clients stay cool, safe, and well during the warmest months
Summer may bring sunshine and smiles, but for older adults, a heatwave can pose serious health risks. Dehydration, fatigue, overheating, and medication-related issues are all more likely to occur — especially for those with complex health conditions or limited mobility.
At CareStaff24, we’re proud to support our community with compassionate care that adapts to the seasons. Here are 20 practical tips every nurse, support worker, or carer can use this summer to protect the people we care for.
Hydration & Nutrition
- Offer water little and often — many elderly clients won’t feel thirsty, so encourage regular sips throughout the day.
- Flavour it up — a slice of lemon, mint, or cucumber can make water more appealing.
- Use hydrating snacks — watermelon, yoghurt, jelly, and ice lollies are fun and effective.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol — they contribute to dehydration.
- Light, cool meals — steer away from heavy roasts and opt for salads or sandwiches.
Keeping Cool Indoors
- Open windows early or late — let in cooler air during mornings and evenings.
- Draw the curtains — reduce indoor temperatures by blocking direct sunlight.
- Use fans safely — aim for cross-ventilation without directing cold air straight onto clients.
- Dampen a cloth — place a cool, damp flannel on wrists or forehead for instant relief.
- Change bedding and clothes — swap heavy fabrics for light, breathable materials.
Health & Monitoring
- Check for signs of heat exhaustion — watch out for dizziness, fatigue, rapid breathing, or confusion.
- Look at medication labels — some prescriptions increase sensitivity to heat.
- Keep skin moisturised — dry, sun-exposed skin can crack and irritate.
- Encourage short rests — heat can zap energy, so frequent breaks are helpful.
- Weigh regularly — sudden drops in weight may indicate dehydration.
Emotional & Mental Wellbeing
- Check for confusion or agitation — heat can worsen dementia symptoms.
- Offer calming activities — music, puzzles, or a cool hand massage can keep minds calm.
- Encourage a chat — loneliness can increase in extreme weather. A little conversation goes a long way.
- Avoid outings in peak sun — save garden time for early morning or later evening.
- Keep your cool too — wear light clothing, hydrate yourself, and take breaks when you can. A calm carer brings calm care.
Caring in a heatwave isn’t easy — but with attention, empathy, and a few smart tips, we can keep our clients safe and smiling all summer long. If you’re a nurse or support worker looking for a caring, local team to grow with, we’d love to hear from you.
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