Heat Health Advice for Older Adults
Older adults can be particularly vulnerable to the effects of hot weather. As we age, our bodies become less able to regulate temperature and respond to heat. Certain medical conditions and medications can also increase the risk of heat-related illness.
If you are over 65, or if you care for an older person, the following tips may be helpful.
Keep your home cool
- Close curtains, blinds or shutters on windows exposed to direct sunlight during the day.
- Open windows when temperatures are cooler, particularly in the evening and overnight.
- Turn off any heating and any electrical appliances you are not using.
- If possible, spend time in the coolest room in your home.
Keep yourself cool
- Stay out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm).
- Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses if outdoors.
- Take cool showers or baths, or use a damp cloth to cool your skin.
- Use electric fans if available, ensuring they are used safely.
Stay hydrated
- Drink fluids (water, diluted squash, low-fat milk) regularly throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid fruit juice, smoothies and soft drinks which can be high in sugar and dehydrate the body.
- Eating fruits with high-water content (like watermelons, strawberries and melon) can be helpful, while ice lollies and jelly can be an occasional way of increasing fluid intake during hot weather.
- Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, which may contribute to dehydration.
- Aim for pale-coloured urine as a sign of good hydration.
Look after your health
- You may find you are less hungry during hotter weather, but it is important to eat – cool meals like sandwiches or salads are recommended.
- Some medical conditions and medications can increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness.
- Continue taking prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.
- If you have concerns about how hot weather may affect your health or medications, speak with your GP, pharmacist or healthcare provider.
- Keep any medicines according to the storage instructions on the packaging.
Stay connected
- Keep in contact with family, friends or neighbours during periods of hot weather.
- Ask someone to check on you regularly if you live alone.
- If possible, arrange shopping and other activities during cooler parts of the day.
Know the signs of heat-related illness
Heat exhaustion
Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness or fatigue
Move to a cool place, drink fluids and rest.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
Symptoms may include:
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Hot, dry skin
- Very high body temperature
- Drowsiness or difficult to rouse
- Not passing urine all day
Seek urgent medical attention by contacting your GP or calling 999 if heatstroke is suspected.
More information is available at:
https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/dehydration/
https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/heat-exhaustion-heatstroke/
Updated 22/06/2026