Age UK advice on how to cope with the heatwave
Published on 09 July 2010 01:30 PM
Commenting on the heatwave alert issued by the Met Office, Michelle Mitchell, Age UK Charity Director, said:
"Our bodies are less able to cope with hot weather as we get older so it is extremely important that older people take sensible precautions during a heatwave, particularly if they are on medication.
"Many older people will choose to stay indoors or in the shade, drink more non-alcoholic drinks, take cool baths or showers, and keep their homes shaded and well ventilated. During successive hot days it is important that older people are able to cool down in the evening and at night.
"One thing that is easy to overlook is that older people should continue to eat well during heatwaves, to ensure their body replaces the salt lost through sweat. Anyone with an older family member or neighbour can help by calling in to check if they are okay and if they need help in taking reasonable precautions to stay well."
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Notes to Editors
- For more advice on how to protect yourself from the heat, you can consult our Staying cool in a heatwave fact sheet available at www.ageuk.org.uk or you can request a copy by calling our free helpline on 0800 169 6565.
- Age UK is the new force combining Age Concern and Help the Aged. The Age UK family includes Age Scotland, Age Cymru and Age NI.