Older people urged to stay safe and hydrated in a heatwave

Care at home provider Bluebird Care Swindon is urging older people to take care during the hot summer weather, by keeping out of the sun and remaining hydrated.

With the weather having regularly topped 30 degrees recently, Bluebird Care Swindon is sending out the strong message that heat and sun exposure is potentially life threatening – and is urging people in the town to stay hydrated and prepare for hot days with some simple tips to stay safe in the sun.

Since 2016, 3,441 older people have been killed in the UK by summer heatwave conditions. The number of deaths caused by heatwaves are rising year on year, with almost 900 deaths in 2019.

Staying hydrated is essential particularly for those in high risk groups, including older people.

Tips for keeping cool and hydrated including keeping your home cool by closing your blinds and curtains; staying hydrated with water, avoiding alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks; checking the local weather forecast; avoiding going out during the hottest part of the day (11am-3pm); and wearing sun protection – sun cream, hat, sunglasses. People should also check on elderly neighbours and relatives to make sure they are OK.

“Many vulnerable people feel lonely and isolated and we are often unaware of the real threat to life that extreme weather can cause to at-risk groups,” said Bluebird Care Swindon Operations Director Katrina Simms.

“Staying hydrated in the summer months is vital as the sun can often catch us off guard. It’s important to start planning for the hotter weather by taking simple precautions like making sure you are aware of the weather forecast, speaking to your neighbours about coping with extreme heat and making sure you are drinking enough fluids.

“We are reaching out to the community in Swindon to ensure that they keep in regular contact with their friends and neighbours to take precautions to stay safe this summer. Anyone needing further advice or are in need of home care over the summer, should contact the team at Bluebird Care Swindon.”

For more details about Bluebird Care Swindon visit https://www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/swindon or phone 01793 239 499.