Check on older neighbours during heatwave

Whilst many of us are enjoying this hot weather, spare a thought for older people who may need some help during these extreme temperatures.

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is urging people to check on older neighbours. Older people may require help with food shopping or collecting prescriptions, and ensuring they stay hydrated with cool drinks.

Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said: ‘With temperatures staying high over the next few days we are aware that some older people are less likely to venture outdoors to do their shopping because of the heat. We are urging people to check on their older neighbours to ensure they have all they need and are keeping cool during this heatwave.’

Extreme temperatures can be particularly dangerous for older people; sustained hot weather can trigger health problems unless care is taken to keep cool. There are lots of things we can all do to keep cool, such as keeping curtains closed in the rooms that are most exposed to the sun, keeping cold drinks to hand and eating salads and fruit. Popping in to see older neighbours to ensure they are drinking plenty of water, asking if they need any prescriptions collecting or have enough supplies of food and refreshments is particularly important during this heatwave.

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin offers a wide range of services to improve the quality of later life. For more information call us on 01743 233 123.