Heatwaves kill more Australians than any other natural hazard. Older people are at higher risk because the body's cooling system becomes less efficient, thirst fades, and some medicines affect sweating and blood pressure.
Who is most at risk
- People over 75, and especially over 85.
- People living alone, or without air conditioning.
- People with heart, kidney or lung disease.
- People taking diuretics, blood pressure medicines or antidepressants.
- People with dementia, who may not recognise the heat or remember to drink.
- People with limited mobility, who cannot move to a cooler room.
Before the heatwave
- Check the forecast and plan the week.
- Stock fluids, easy food and any medication.
- Test the air conditioner or fan.
- Know which room stays coolest. Often the south side or the lowest floor.
- Have a plan for somewhere to go if the house becomes unsafe.
- Tell a neighbour or family member that you are on your own during the heat.
During the heat
- Close curtains and windows on the hot side of the house during the day.
- Open them at night when it cools.
- Use a fan or air conditioning. Do not rely on a fan alone in extreme heat.
- Drink regularly, before you feel thirsty. Water is best. Avoid alcohol.
- Eat cold food: salad, fruit, yoghurt. Avoid heavy cooking.
- Wear light, loose clothing.
- Cool the skin with a damp cloth, a cool shower or a footbath.
- Avoid going out in the middle of the day.
Check on people
Call or visit at least twice a day. Ask whether they are drinking, whether the house is cool, and how they feel. Do not rely on a single call, and do not assume they will ask for help.
The signs of heat illness
Heat exhaustion: headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, muscle cramps, heavy sweating, pale skin. Move to a cool place, loosen clothing, apply cool wet cloths, sip water. If it does not improve in 30 minutes, call the GP or NURSE-ON-CALL.
Heatstroke: confusion, agitation, slurred speech, hot dry skin, a temperature above 40 degrees, collapse or seizure. This is an emergency. Call 000 and cool the person while you wait.
Do not wait for thirst
If you are caring for someone, offer a drink every hour. Do not ask whether they want one. Pour it and put it in their hand.
Medicines and heat
Some medicines affect how the body handles heat. Do not stop or change a medicine because of the weather without advice. Ask the GP or pharmacist what to watch for.
After the heatwave
Check on the person again. Heat exhaustion can leave people weak for days. Watch for confusion, reduced eating and drinking, and falls.
Common questions
How much water should an older person drink in a heatwave?
Regular small amounts through the day. Ask the GP if there is a fluid restriction.
Is a fan enough?
In extreme heat, a fan can make things worse by moving hot air. Use air conditioning or go somewhere cool.
What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?
Heatstroke involves confusion, hot dry skin and a very high temperature. It is an emergency.
Should I stop my blood pressure medicine in the heat?
Do not change it without advice. Ask the GP or pharmacist.
What if the person refuses to drink?
Offer small amounts often, try cold or flavoured fluids, and check for confusion or infection. Call the GP if it continues.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. If you are worried about your health, call your GP. In an emergency, call 000.