10 Summer can be a wonderful time for enjoying the outdoors and connecting with family, but for older Australians, extreme heat brings real risks. In older adults, not only are they more vulnerable to heat stress, but it can happen much more quickly and be much more serious than in healthy, younger adults. At Home Care Assistance Australia, we see the impact of hot weather on our clients every year. That’s why it’s so important to recognise the warning signs, understand the risk factors, and know how to respond quickly. Recognising the Signs of Heat Stress Knowing the early signs of heat stress can prevent a dangerous situation from becoming an emergency. Be alert to any of the following symptoms: • Lethargy or unusual tiredness • Dizziness or fainting • Muscle cramps • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea • Rapid heart rate • Dark or decreased urine output • Confusion, disorientation or sudden mood changes • Headaches or blurred vision • Excessive thirst If your loved one begins to show these signs (especially in hot or humid weather) it’s essential to act immediately. Heat stress can escalate quickly. Don’t wait for multiple symptoms to appear – early intervention saves lives. How to Prevent Heat Stress The best way to avoid heat-related illness is through prevention. Here are some practical ways to stay safe during the warmer months: • Stay hydrated: Encourage regular small sips of water throughout the day—even before thirst is felt • Avoid the midday heat: Plan outings, appointments, shopping or exercise early in the morning or after sunset • Keep homes cool: Use fans, air conditioning, or visit cool public places like shopping centres or libraries. Often in a heatwave places like libraries will have extended opening hours for people who do not have cooling in their homes, or consider visiting a friend who does have cooling at home. • Wear lightweight, breathable clothing: Choose cotton or linen and opt for light colours • Use cooling aids: Cool cloths, mist sprays, or even a foot soak can help lower body temperature • Monitor medications: Some increase sensitivity to heat—check with your GP or pharmacist • Check in regularly: If your loved one lives alone, call or visit daily during heatwaves When Extra Support Can Help If you’re concerned that your loved one is at risk of heat stress whether due to health conditions, memory issues, or living alone, it might be time to consider in-home support. At Home Care Assistance Australia, our team can help by: • Monitoring hydration and food intake • Managing medications • Creating cool, safe home environments • Providing companionship and regular wellness checks • Supporting with transport, shopping, and personal care during hot days This kind of daily support makes a real difference in preventing emergencies and maintaining wellbeing through the summer months. Heat stress is serious, but preventable. With the right knowledge, a few practical changes, and support when needed, older Australians can stay safe and enjoy summer with confidence. Support at home from a specialist provider, such as Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefits and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance offers viable solutions for supporting independent living. For more information see our advert page 11 > Signs of Heat Stress in the Elderly FREE, FIXED NO OBLIGATION QUOTES FREE, FIXED NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Need it done? Jim’s the one! 131 546 INSURANCE COVER Satisfaction Guaranteed! P Lawn Mowing P Gutter Cleaning P Rubbish Removal P General Maintenance P Irrigation Installation P New Lawn Laying P Yard Clean Ups P Tree Removal P Weed Control P Fertilizing P Pruning
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjM5MTE=