High summer temperatures are especially hard on older people, but the right habits can greatly ease their effects. Small changes to the daily routine, diet, and surroundings make the heat far easier to bear and help seniors stay well.
The key to comfort is keeping the home cool. Early in the morning and late in the evening, when the air is cooler, open the windows wide and air out the rooms. During the day, keep them shaded with blinds, shutters, or curtains to keep the heat out. A fan placed next to a bowl of cold water or a damp towel cools the air even more. It is worth limiting the use of the oven and other appliances that heat up the interior.
Older people often feel thirst less strongly, so they should drink regularly rather than waiting until their mouth feels dry. Water, unsweetened herbal teas, and fruit infusions at room temperature are best. Replace heavy, fatty dishes with light meals — salads, vegetables, fruit, and cold soups. Foods with a high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, or tomato, nourish and hydrate the body at the same time.
During a heat wave, it helps to replan the day so that the most demanding activities — walks, shopping, or exercise — are done early in the morning or after dusk. In the hottest hours, between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., it is best to rest in a cool, shaded room. A short nap and a calm daily rhythm help the body cope better with high temperatures and prevent exhaustion.
Light, loose clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton or linen lets the skin breathe and wicks away sweat. Light colors reflect the sun’s rays, and a hat protects against overheating outdoors. Cool compresses on the neck and wrists, a lukewarm shower, or soaking the feet in cool water bring relief. These simple measures quickly lower body temperature and improve well-being.
Heat waves do not have to mean suffering — a few sensible habits are enough to get through them calmly and safely. If you care for an older person and need support on hot days, OPK.CARE will help you choose the right form of care — from home help to professional care homes, where a senior’s comfort always comes first.
July 13, 2026
