Staying Safe and Keep Cool This Summer
Summer can be a wonderful time to enjoy longer days, spend time outdoors, and make the most of the warmer weather. However, high temperatures can also present challenges, particularly for unpaid carers and the people they care for.
Whether you're supporting an older relative, someone with a disability, a long-term health condition, or a young person with additional needs, taking a few simple steps can help everyone stay safe, healthy, and comfortable during hot weather. People aged over 65, young children, pregnant women, and those living with conditions such as heart disease, respiratory conditions or dementia are among those most at risk from the effects of heat.
Looking After Yourself
As a carer, it's easy to put your own needs last, but looking after yourself helps you continue caring for someone else.
Here are a few simple ways to stay well:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if you're outside.
Try to stay in the shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.
Take regular breaks where you can, even if it's just for a few minutes in a cool room.
Eat lighter meals and include foods with a high water content, such as fruit and salads.
If you're feeling tired or overwhelmed, ask family, friends or neighbours if they can help with errands or caring responsibilities for a short while.
Helping the Person You Care For
Hot weather can affect people differently, and some may not realise they're becoming dehydrated or overheated.
You can help by:
Encouraging regular drinks throughout the day.
Keeping curtains or blinds closed in sunny rooms and opening windows when it's cooler, particularly overnight.
Planning activities for the morning or evening when temperatures are lower.
Checking in regularly if they live alone or spend time in another room.
Making sure any medication is stored correctly, following the instructions on the packaging.
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
It's important to recognise when someone may be becoming unwell due to the heat.
Signs of heat exhaustion can include:
Feeling dizzy or faint
Headache
Excessive sweating
Muscle cramps
Feeling or being sick
Weakness or unusual tiredness
If someone has these symptoms, move them to a cool place, encourage them to drink fluids, and help cool their skin with cool water or damp cloths. If they do not improve within 30 minutes, or they become confused, lose consciousness, or have a very high temperature, seek urgent medical help immediately as this could be heatstroke.
Remember: You Don't Have to Do It Alone
Caring can become even more demanding during periods of hot weather. Remember that taking care of your own wellbeing is not a luxury, it's an important part of being able to continue caring safely.
If you're an unpaid carer living in Swindon and would like advice, information or support, Swindon Carers Together is here to help. Whether you need someone to talk to, information about local services, or opportunities to connect with other carers, we're here for you.