How to take care of yourself and others during hot weather
With heatwaves happening in the UK more often than ever before, it's important to know what you can do to stay safe and keep well.
When caring for someone, there can be a lot to consider. We have provided some tips to help you keep well and prepared for the challenges extreme heat conditions can bring.
Tips for carers on coping with the heat
Here are some concerns we commonly hear and suggestions for what could help:
1/ The home is so warm. How do we make it cooler?
There are ways to make the home cooler. Drawing the curtains first thing in the morning and even keeping the windows shut can sometimes prevent too much hot air coming inwards. Opening the windows at night can help ventilate the rooms with cooler air. Many people find electric fans a great relief which can be ordered online. Make sure you buy from a reputable seller. Foot soaks can also be a nice way to cool down the whole body.
2/ Within the home, how can we cool down ourselves?
Wearing light and loose clothing can help. Keeping ice packs in the freezer and wrapping them with towels can offer great relief especially at night-time. Keep drinking lots of water - keeping it in the fridge can make it even more refreshing.
3/ How do we maintain our energy levels when the heat makes us feel so lethargic?
It's natural to have lower energy levels. Try to do things at a slower pace and go easy on yourself. Keep hydrated and help the person you care for do the same if they need support. If someone has cognitive difficulties, they may be unaware of their thirst so it's important to ensure they (and you) keep sipping water throughout the day. See the NHS website for recommended amounts. Some people who find swallowing more difficult find specialist hydrating sweets such as jelly drops helpful. If in doubt, their doctor/ healthcare team will be able to advise what is (and isn't) suitable.
4/ Avoid going out or doing tasks during the hottest peak times of the day.
Where possible, try to reschedule and put off anything that requires energy and physical exertion. This isn't always possible when caring so reach out to neighbours, family members and friends where possible if you need assistance. At extreme times like these, most people are willing to offer some support. You might also be able to arrange online deliveries for essentials.
5/ Medication – I'm worried about important medication getting too warm.
If important medication needs to be stored below a certain temperature, can you store this in a fridge or another cool area? Check with your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure.
6/ Can I recognise the signs of dehydration?
Symptoms of dehydration include:
- a dry mouth
- dizziness or confusion
- headaches
Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion, a serious condition, if left untreated. If the person’s condition gets worse, you should call 999 for emergency help.
7/ Can I recognise the signs of heatstroke?
Sometimes it is not easy to know the difference between heat exhaustion and heatsroke, both of which can be very serious and even fatal. The NHS website has further information and highlights what to look out for: Heat exhaustion and heatstroke - NHS.
8/ How else can we keep protected from the heat?
If you have to go outdoors, protect yourself with a hat that provides good shade around the head and neck. Also wear high factor sun lotion and don't forget to reapply it regularly or keep covered up by wearing long-sleeved tops and loose trousers to keep your skin protected.
Find out more
For further information, visit:
If you live in England, see the NHS website .
If you live in Wales, visit NHS Direct Wales website.
If you live in Scotland, visit the NHS Inform website .
If you live in Northern Ireland, see the flu vaccination page on NI Direct .
Also read this guidance: Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather - GOV.UK