The elderly population in Swindon has increased in recent years. This is because Swindon has made progress in its quality of elderly care, with the town even being ranked the second best place to live in the UK for elderly people, according to a study by Lottie.org. This ranking was based on key metrics that affect the elderly population, such as care home quality, local restaurant quality, access to public parks, and proximity to the closest hospital.
However, health risks among Swindon’s elderly remain, among which are illnesses and deaths caused by intense heatwaves. Read on to learn more about this weather-related health risk and what older adults can do to stay safe and protected from the heat.
Older adults are at higher risk for heat-related conditions
While summer has already come and gone, a long-range forecast from the Met Office advises Brits to remain prepared for heatwaves that could last well into the autumn season. Besides natural weather patterns, climate change is said to exacerbate an unseasonably warm October not just in the UK, but across mainland Europe. In recent years, high October temperatures went past 20C, recording 23.9C in 2018. This year, daytime temperatures during autumn are expected to reach heatwave conditions of up to 30C.
Heatwaves pose health risks across all age groups. However, older adults are disproportionately affected due to age-related changes in the body’s ability to regulate temperature and underlying chronic medical conditions. As a result, a previous report emphasises intense heat and sun exposure as potentially life-threatening to Swindon’s elderly population. In fact, heatwaves have caused over 3,000 deaths among older people in the UK since 2016, with the number rising year on year. Overheating for prolonged periods can also increase the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat cramps, rash, and stroke.
Sun protection tips older adults can follow
With rising heat indexes and daytime temperatures, older adults must prioritise sun protection in their daily routines. A sunhat and a pair of sunglasses can also serve as physical barriers from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. As many older adults struggle with age-related vision decline, they can buy prescription sunglasses to accommodate both sun safety and vision correction needs while outdoors. It is best to buy from an established eyewear like Oakley, as they guarantee the required protection. Oakley offers a range of frame styles and sizes to cater to all ages, with polarised lens options for extra glare protection.
Since prolonged sun exposure can also cause skin damage like rashes and sunburn, the British Association of Dermatologists also advises applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, while other health experts recommend paying attention to mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients are suitable for all skin types, with brands like Neutrogena and Summer Fridays offering a gentle formulation for older, mature skin that is thinner and more vulnerable to UV rays. Choose lightweight, light-coloured clothing that adequately protects the skin’s sensitive areas and can further prevent sunburn.
Staying indoors is highly advised during heatwaves, but older adults in Swindon may need to go out for social interactions, medical consultations, and day-to-day errands. In cases where going out is absolutely necessary, elderly people must hydrate, stay in the shade as much as possible, and follow the previously mentioned tips on sun protection. Lastly, the elderly and their family must seek immediate help if they notice signs of heat-related illnesses, such as headaches, confusion, dizziness, and nausea.
