Tips for staying cool for the Elderly. 
This unprecedented weather has left us all feeling hot and weary. It's really important to look after yourself and elderly relatives who are more prone to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Here are some tips we found useful from Age UK, or use my favourite one which is to bathe your feet in a bowl of cold water for at least 10 minutes 
 
Don’t spend long periods sitting or working outside during the hottest time of the day: late morning to mid-afternoon. 
If you’re travelling always take a bottle of water (and especially if walking anywhere). 
Avoid strenuous activity, and limit activities like housework and gardening to the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. 
When inside, try to stay in the coolest parts of your home. Keep curtains and blinds closed in rooms that catch the sun. 
Keep windows shut while it’s cooler inside than out and open them when it gets hotter inside. If it’s safe, you could leave a window open at night when it’s cooler. 
Wear loose, lightweight, light-coloured, cotton clothing. 
Take cool baths or showers. 
Splash your face with cool (not cold) water, or place a damp cloth on the back of your neck to help you cool off. 
Drink lots of fluid – even if you aren’t thirsty. 
Eat normally – even if you aren’t hungry, you need a normal diet to replace salt losses from sweating. In addition, try to have more cold foods, particularly salads and fruit, as these contain a lot of water. 
 
What else can you do? 
If you live alone, consider asking a relative or friend to visit or phone to check that you’re not having difficulties. 
If you know a neighbour who lives alone, check regularly that they are OK. 
If a heatwave is on its way or the weather is hot for several days, listen to local radio so you know the latest advice for your area. Check weather reports and temperature warnings on TV and radio. 
If you have breathing problems or a heart condition, your symptoms might get worse when it’s very hot. Contact your GP for advice. 
Bacteria on food can multiply quickly in hot weather, which increases the risk of food poisoning. Don't leave food out in a warm room or the sun. 
Tagged as: Home Care Support
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