Healthy in the heat: What you need to know

Australia is experiencing extreme hot weather, with severe heatwave conditions forecast across many parts of the country. Heatwaves can have serious health impacts, particularly for older people and those with existing health conditions.

As a Home Health provider, our priority is to help keep you safe, comfortable and well during periods of extreme heat. This page answers common questions about heatwaves, who is most at risk, how to stay safe at home and how we can work together with families and carers during hot weather.

If you’re ever concerned about someone’s health during a heatwave, it’s important to act early.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a heatwave?

A heatwave is a period of several days of very hot weather, including hot daytime temperatures and warm nights. Unlike a single hot day, heatwaves place ongoing stress on the body and make it harder to cool down to recover, especially for older people.

Why are older people more at risk during heatwaves?

As we age, the body becomes less able to regulate temperature. Older people may:

• Sweat less efficiently.
• Feel less thirsty, even when dehydrated.
• Take longer to respond to heat stress.

Heat-related illness can worsen quickly in older people and may lead to serious health deterioration if not treated early.

Who is at highest risk in hot weather?

Risk is higher for older people who:

• Are frail or have low body weight.
• Live with dementia or cognitive impairment.
• Have chronic health conditions (such as heart disease, kidney disease or diabetes).
• Take certain medications.
• Have difficulty staying hydrated.
• Have mobility challenges that make it hard to move to cooler areas.

People living alone may also be at greater risk during prolonged heat.

What are the warning signs of heat-related illness?

Seek urgent help if you notice:

• A sudden rise in body temperature.
• Confusion or changes in behaviour.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Seizures.
• Loss of consciousness.
• A weak or rapid pulse.

This is a medical emergency. Begin cooling immediately and call 000.

How can I stay safe at home during a heatwave?

Simple steps can make a big difference:

• Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day.
• Use air conditioning or fans to cool living areas.
• Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Take lukewarm showers or use cool sponging to help lower body temperature.

If you don’t have air conditioning, using a fan with a damp towel or sheet nearby can help cool the air.

How important is hydration during hot weather?

Very important. Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat and may worsen existing health conditions. Look out for signs of dehydration such as:

• Dry mouth or tongue.
• Reduced toileting.
• Dark-coloured urine.
• Heat rash or fatigue.

If you’re unsure how much fluid is appropriate due to a medical condition, speak with your GP or Care Partner.

What should families and carers do during a heatwave?

Families and carers can help by:

• Checking in during hot weather.
• Ensuring cooling devices are working and turned on.
• Encouraging regular fluid intake.
• Watching for early signs of heat stress.
• Helping adjust routines to avoid heat exposure.

If you’re worried, contact the person’s GP or seek emergency help if symptoms are severe.

How do we help support people during extreme heat?

Our Care Partners are trained to:

• Monitor for signs of dehydration and heat stress.
• Encourage fluids and cooling strategies.
• Escalate concerns promptly.
• Following individual plans for vulnerable customers.

If there are signs of health deterioration, we will recommend clinical review or emergency care as needed.

What is expected when a Care Partner visits my home during hot weather?

For everyone’s safety, Care Partners need a safe working environment. When a Care Partner is providing services in your home during hot weather, we ask that you:

• Turn on air conditioning or cooling where available.
• Ensure adequate airflow and hydration.
• Allow breaks if conditions are extreme.
• Understand that some tasks may not be possible, such as vacuuming, mopping or activities that require extended periods outdoors, including social support.

What if I’m concerned about someone’s wellbeing?

If you’re concerned, act early. Depending on the situation:

• Contact a family member.
• Contact the person’s GP.
• Call 000 immediately if symptoms are severe or worsening.