Preparing for extreme heat

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Encourage the older person to use a fan or air-conditioner.
Check the air-conditioner is on ‘cool’ before turning it on.
Look into energy bill concessions. Find out more at www.concessions.tas.gov.au or call 1300 135 513.
Plan to go to an air-conditioned local library or shopping centre.
Use a cool, wet cloth to wipe their arms and neck.
Put their feet in a bowl of cool water.
Make water or cordial ice cubes to suck when hot.
Put a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan to create a cool breeze.
Advise them to sleep with just a sheet over them.

Eating and drinking during extreme heat

An older person may not always be able to tell when they are thirsty.
Encourage them to drink water often.
Check with their doctor about how much they should drink.
Tell them to avoid tea, coffee or alcohol.
Ensure they always have a bottle of water to avoid becoming dehydrated.
Encourage them to eat smaller meals more often during hot weather.
Use stoves or ovens less. This keeps the temperature cooler in their home. It also reduces the risk of accidentally leaving them on.
Ensure that food needing refrigeration is not left out.

Older people have reduced circulation.
They sweat less.
Encourage them to wear lightweight, light-coloured and loose-fitting clothing.
Natural fibres like cotton or linen are best. Avoid synthetic or nylon fabrics.
Make sure they wear broad-spectrum sunscreen (minimum SPF30+).
They should wear it even if they only go outside for a short time.
Apply it under the sleeves and collar of a blouse or shirt to cover the neck.
Also apply it on their legs and feet if they are wearing shorts or sandals.
Make sure they wear a hat that shades their face, neck and ears.
Always wear sunglasses outside.
Take off sunglasses before going inside to prevent an accident.
Pause inside for a few minutes to help eyes adjust from the bright sunlight.
Check their wheelchair, walker and other metal equipment does not become hot to avoid a burn.