UK heatwaves amplify elderly vulnerability
Heatwave Threats to Older Brits
In the early summer, the United Kingdom has faced three heatwaves that defied the usual weather patterns. A heatwave is a prolonged stretch of hot weather that diverges from what is normally expected in a region at that season, often accompanied by heavy humidity.
Why Humidity Matters
Humidity in the UK tends to be higher than in continental Europe. When the air is humid, the body struggles to cool itself because sweat evaporates more slowly. This hampers the body’s ability to stay comfortable during extreme, climate‑driven heat.
Vulnerable to Heat
Michael Loftus, Managing Director of Consumer Services at Stiltz, told Digital Journal that older adults face higher risks of heat exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke. Loftus encourages families and neighbours to check in on elderly friends routinely and to take the heat alert seriously.
Loftus explains: “With a yellow heat health alert now in place across the UK, it’s important that people understand how these temperatures can impact the wellbeing of older and more vulnerable people.”
What the Weather‑Health Alert System Says
An amber alert indicates that weather conditions are likely to affect the entire UK health service. For the elderly, Loftus notes: “High temperatures can pose a severe challenge for those in later life, increasing their vulnerability to heat exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke. For those living alone or managing underlying health conditions, it’s essential to take extra care as everyday activities such as cooking, climbing stairs or spending time in a warm room can add strain to the body.”
Heat‑Related Illnesses
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both illnesses linked to heat, but heatstroke is far more severe and can be life‑threatening. Heat exhaustion is a warning sign, while heatstroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
How to Reduce the Risk
Loftus advises simple measures: stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (typically between 11 am and 3 pm), keep curtains or blinds drawn in rooms that get direct sunlight, open windows at night to let cooler air circulate, wear light, loose‑fitting clothing, and use a fan or cool damp cloth on the back of the neck to regulate body temperature.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
If someone feels dizzy, confused, unusually tired, or develops a headache or muscle cramps, it may be a sign of heat exhaustion. In those cases, move the person to a cooler place, give fluids, and contact a medical professional if symptoms persist.
Checking on the Vulnerable
Loftus stresses that regularly checking on the most vulnerable members of society is important. “We encourage families, neighbours and carers to check in on older relatives and friends regularly and to take the heat alert seriously. Even a quick phone call or doorstep chat can make a big difference.”
For more information or guidance, you can contact a local healthcare provider or a volunteer organisation that works with older adults.
