Hot weather tips

With Wales expecting unseasonably hot weather into the weekend, Age Cymru is today reminding older people about how to stay cool in high temperatures.

Claire Bottomley, the charity’s Healthy Ageing Manager says:

“Many of us will relish this late taste of summer and the opportunity to enjoy being outdoors.

“But with temperatures predicted to reach highs of 78 degrees Fahrenheit over the coming days, older people need to make sure that they are prepared for and ready to deal with effects of the heat.

“This is why Age Cymru is today issuing a reminder to older people of some simple hints and tips that they can follow to help themselves make the most of and enjoy this sunny spell.”

The Age Cymru list of hot weather tips for older people:

1. Try and plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat in the hottest part of the day (11am – 3pm);
2. If you must go out stay in the shade, wear a hat and light loose fitting clothes which are preferably cotton;
3. If you will be outside for some time, take plenty of fresh drinking water with you as well as a high factor suncream/block;
4. Take cool showers or baths and splash yourself several times a day with cold water, particularly your face and the back of your neck;
5. Drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Water/fruit juice is best and try to avoid alcohol;
6. Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water;
7. Close the curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun;
8. Open windows when the temperature inside rises, and at night for ventilation;
9. If you are worried about security, at least open windows on the first floor and above;

ENDS