Older People at risk from High Summer Temperatures - 21.07.05

Today, IndependentAge, the national charity championing independence for older people, is launching a Summer Challenge calling on British holidaymakers and day trippers not to forget older friends, relatives and neighbours who may be struggling to cope with the hot weather.

Older members of the community are at risk from high summer temperatures and in London deaths among people aged over 75 rose by 59%* during the extreme temperatures of August 2003.  Even during mild heat waves the mortality rate increases significantly and timely preventative action is vital to protect vulnerable groups including older people, especially those aged over 75 and living on their own.

IndependentAge Chief Executive Jonathan Powell said:  "We are all aware that older people suffer when the temperature starts to drop, however, extremely high temperatures can also prove fatal to older people.   During the summer period we each have a responsibility to keep an eye on older friends, neighbours and relatives to ensure they are keeping well.  Older people can feel particularly isolated if their usual family support network is away on holiday.  Remember that a postcard can make all the difference to someone's day.”

The Summer Challenge Checklist:
• Check that older people are drinking plenty of fluids and keeping as cool as possible. 
• If you are going away, please ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on older people who you know are living on their own and don't forget to send them a postcard.