20/06/2026
It is not your imagination..... we all feel the effects of heat more as we get older. This is because our bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature. When it is exceptionally hot there are a few things we should all do. This advice is from Age UK.
****When you’re out and about.****
• Avoid spending time outside or exercising during the hottest part of the day (between 11am and 3pm). Where possible, try to keep in the shade.
• Wear a sun hat and carry a bottle of water with you.
• Wear light-coloured, lightweight cotton clothing.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast.
• Apply suncream, even when it’s cloudy. You should use at least SPF 30 and apply it regularly. Make sure you don’t miss any spots – it can be easy to forget bald patches, for instance.
• Talk to your optician about prescription sunglasses. Make sure any sunglasses you wear have a CE mark and UV400 label.
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****When you’re at home.****
• Keep blinds down and windows closed when it’s cooler inside.
• Most medication should be kept below 25°C – so it can be best to keep it in the fridge when it’s really hot.
• Check your skin for changes every few months. If you notice that a mole has changed colour or shape or has been bleeding, talk to your doctor.
• Drink plenty to avoid getting dehydrated and keep eating even if you’re not feeling too hungry. It can be best to avoid alcohol
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****If you get too hot. ****
• A damp cloth or a splash of water on the back of your neck can be better at cooling you down than a fan.
• Watch out for signs of dehydration, such as confusion, cramps, dark urine and feeling tired. You don’t have to feel thirsty to be dehydrated.
• Be careful of heat exhaustion – symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea and a fast pulse. If you feel ill, lie down in a cool room, drink plenty of fluids, and cool yourself with a splash of water. Call your local pharmacist or 111 for advice.
• Heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke. Symptoms include falling unconscious and seizures. Call 999 immediately if you think you or someone else might have heatstroke.
• If you know it’s going to be particularly hot, ask someone to check on you. In turn, check on others you think might need it.