As summer arrives in the UK, we’re enjoying longer, brighter days and a warm, gentle breeze. It’s an uplifting time of year when spirits are high and the outdoors beckon — but it’s also important to stay mindful of seasonal health risks. Warmer weather can increase the chance of illness or dehydration, particularly for older adults. That’s why now is the perfect time to start preparing for the hotter days ahead.
Below, we’ve shared some practical summer wellness tips to help older adults stay healthy, cool, and happy throughout the sunny season.
Top Wellness Tips for the Summer
Boost Your Sun Protection
Whenever you’re out enjoying the sunshine — even in the shade — remember to apply a high-SPF sunscreen and reapply every few hours. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses adds extra safety, especially during midday hours when the sun is strongest.
Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
Summer is a great time to enjoy a colourful variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that keep your body energised and support your immune system.
Healthy eating can also be social and fun. Try new seasonal recipes, cook together with loved ones, or pass down favourite family meals to the grandchildren.
Keep an Eye on the Forecast
Staying weather-aware helps you prepare for temperature spikes or heatwaves. Plan outdoor time for cooler parts of the day and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.
Review Your Medication
Some medications can increase your sensitivity to sunlight or affect hydration levels. It’s always best to check with your GP or pharmacist to see if any precautions are needed, particularly in hot weather.
Tips for Staying Cool During Summer
Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related illness, so it’s important to take extra care when temperatures rise above 25°C. Here are some practical ways to stay cool:
Wear Light, Loose Clothing
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen allow the skin to breathe and help the body stay cool. Choose light colours that reflect sunlight rather than absorb it.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Hydration is key during hot weather. Keep a chilled bottle of water nearby and sip regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Watch for signs of dehydration:
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Confusion
- Rapid heart rate
- Difficulty walking
Hydration tips we use at Friary Care include:
- Aim for 6–8 glasses of water a day
- Drink with every meal and when taking medication
- Avoid alcohol and limit caffeinated drinks
- Eat water-rich foods (e.g. watermelon, cucumber)
- Keep water with you when out and about
- Set phone reminders if needed
Stay Indoors During Peak Heat
On very hot days, staying inside is often the safest option. At Friary Care, we take the following steps to keep our residents comfortable:
- Closing blinds to block direct sunlight
- Offering regular drink top-ups
- Providing access to ice water
- Monitoring fluid intake with daily checks
Use Shady Spaces Wisely
If you’d like to spend time outdoors, stick to shaded areas with a breeze and easy access to water. Avoid strenuous activity and take breaks to rest in cooler indoor spaces. Wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen remains essential.
Keeping Active During the Summer
While it’s important to avoid overexertion, staying active can be both safe and enjoyable. Consider these low-impact ideas:
- Gentle walks during cooler times of day
- Chair-based exercises or stretching indoors
- Gardening in the shade
- Light dancing or movement classes
Summer is also a great time to try new hobbies. Whether it’s painting, reading outside, or joining a group activity, staying mentally and socially active helps boost wellbeing. Care homes like Friary Care offer daily activities designed for all interests and abilities.
How Friary Care Helps in the Summer
If you or a loved one needs extra support during the warmer months, our friendly team at Friary Care is here to help. We offer:
- In-home care
- Residential and respite care
- Daily wellness monitoring
- Health checks and hydration support
We carefully follow many of the tips shared above to ensure all our residents stay safe, comfortable, and happy — no matter how high the temperature climbs.
To find out more about how we can support you or your loved one this summer, please get in touch with the team at Friary Care. We’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why are older adults more affected by heat?
As we age, the body’s ability to regulate temperature weakens, making it harder to stay cool and detect thirst.
Q: What temperature is too hot for seniors?
Extra care should be taken when temperatures rise above 25°C. Over 30°C can pose health risks for vulnerable individuals.
Q: How much water should older adults drink in summer?
Aim for 6–8 glasses daily, plus more if you’re outdoors or active.
Q: What are safe summer activities for seniors?
Gentle walking, light gardening, arts and crafts, reading in the shade, and social clubs are all excellent ways to stay engaged without overheating.
Q: How do care homes support residents in hot weather?
By providing hydration reminders, cool drinks, shaded rest areas, and closely monitoring for any signs of heat stress.
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