As summer temperatures soar across the UK, it’s important to take simple, effective steps to help older people stay safe, cool and well in the heat.
Older people—especially those living with dementia—can find it more difficult to regulate their body temperature, stay hydrated or notice the signs of heat exhaustion. HC-One care homes are experienced in helping people stay safe and comfortable during hot weather.
Here, we share some of the small steps we take every day to support health and wellbeing during a heatwave.
Encouraging regular hydration
One of the most important ways to support older people during hot weather is to encourage regular drinking—even when they might not feel thirsty.
Louise Carverhill, Head of Resident Safety at HC-One, explains:
“Our older residents can sometimes struggle in the heat, and it’s important that we take heatwaves seriously to ensure residents’ wellbeing during these hot periods.
Our colleagues ensure they are monitoring our residents’ hydration levels, offering ice lollies and a variety of drinks to keep them drinking – especially for those living with dementia.”
Creative hydration stations—like mocktail bars and fruit-infused water—can also be a fun and social way to encourage drinking throughout the day.
Limiting exposure to heat while enjoying the sunshine
Staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, using shady outdoor areas, and making the most of cooler mornings or evenings can all help reduce risk.
“When outside,” Louise adds, “our colleagues ensure they find a shady spot for our residents and they do a fantastic job making sure they reduce exposure to the heat while allowing them to enjoy the warmer weather.”
Keeping cool indoors
Practical changes like closing curtains at peak hours, setting up fans, and choosing light, breathable clothing can make a big difference. Creating airy room layouts and offering chilled snacks can also help keep things comfortable.
Many older people benefit from lighter meals in the heat, so adapting menus to include fresh fruit, salads and hydrating ingredients can support wellbeing too.
Balancing safety with wellbeing
While staying cool is the priority, summer is still a season to enjoy. HC-One care homes balance safety with meaningful activities and gentle routines.
Lawra Baumane, Wellbeing Manager at HC-One, says:
“The sunshine always brings a lot of joy to our residents but with all good things, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Our care teams across the country have been taking steps to ensure everyone stays cool, all while enjoying as much of the summer weather as possible.”
Lawra explains that when the weather gets too warm, teams offer indoor alternatives like painting, indoor fishing, or watching Wimbledon:
"We’ve also organised seaside and garden centre trips during cooler times of the day, allowing plenty of time for fish and chips and a slice of cake. Ice cream vans, community BBQs and garden parties have brought the sunshine to our doorsteps safely.”
Small changes that make a big difference
Looking after someone in the heat doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does require consistency, care and attention. Whether it’s offering an extra glass of water, adjusting the day’s routine, or simply sitting in a shady spot outdoors, these little steps help support older people’s health and happiness through the summer months.
For many families, care homes can offer reassurance during hot weather by providing round-the-clock support, safe indoor environments, and experienced teams who understand the unique needs of older people during extreme temperatures.
At HC-One, these thoughtful, everyday actions are a key part of how our teams continue caring with kindness, whatever the weather.
Looking for a kind, caring home near you this summer? Search our care homes, the different types of care offered at HC-One, or explore our care homes by region.