As summer temperatures rise, the risk of falls among older adults increases. Heat is the most frequent cause of extreme weather-related injury hospitalisations and deaths in Australia, impacting the health of older adults more than other groups. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, for heat-related injuries between 2019–20 and 2021–22, those aged 65 and over were the most commonly hospitalised.
With severe heatwaves likely to be a part of our future, it’s essential to prepare for managing the health of older adults during high-risk weather seasons.
The impact of heat on falls risk
- Hydration and cognition: Older adults are more prone to dehydration due to changes in thirst sensation and kidney function. Dehydration can lead to dizziness, confusion, and impaired judgment, significantly contributing to falls.
- Energy levels: Heat can cause fatigue, reducing an individual’s physical strength and reaction times. Fatigue increases the likelihood of tripping, slipping, or losing balance.
- Balance and blood pressure: High temperatures can dilate blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure and feelings of light-headedness or unsteadiness, especially when transitioning from sitting to standing.
- Medication: Older adults are likely to have chronic health conditions and take medications that contribute to heat intolerance, increasing their risk of a fall.
Strategies to recommend
Hydration
- Encourage older adults to drink water frequently, even if they don’t feel thirsty (unless they are on restricted fluids advised by their doctor).
- Suggest carrying a water bottle during outings, consuming drinks that contain electrolytes, and eating hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables.
- Advise avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
Physical activity
- Do strength and balance exercises during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
- Avoid outdoor exercise and other physical activity when it is very hot. Instead, encourage older adults to find someplace they can be active while staying cool indoors.
Heat safe practices
- Advise wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and safe footwear that protect their feet from hot pavement.
- Limit oven use, keep shades, blinds, or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day, and open windows at night to keep their space as cool as possible.
- If their living space is hot, encourage them to spend time in an air-conditioned place, such as the shopping centre, movies, library, senior centre, or a friend’s or family member’s home during the day.
Medication
- Encourage older adults to get medicine reviews and so they are informed if their medications are more likely to make them overheated or dehydrated.
- Advise keeping medications medicines out of the heat and direct sunlight both at home and when travelling.
Encourage awareness and preparedness
It’s important to educate older adults and caregivers about the symptoms of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Early intervention can prevent falls and serious heat-related illnesses.
Where to look for information and resources
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has launched a new People at Higher Risk Preparedness resource website to support people who may face extra challenges during emergencies. Health and community workers are encouraged to share with older adults.
The WA Department of Health developed a suite of heatwave factsheets and checklists to help local governments, businesses, and community organisations educate the public, including older adults, about the effects of extreme heat and prepare for heatwaves.
The HealthyWA website has a large range of articles on those at greatest risk of harm from high temperatures such as working safely in hot conditions, heat stress in older people and food safety.
The Australian Red Cross website offers clear, simple tips on how to prepare to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during extreme heat. You can also test your knowledge about heatwaves with a short quiz.
Encourage access to support services
Remember to check in regularly on those who may be more affected by extreme heat and ensure they have everything they need. Western Australians vulnerable to extreme heat can register for TeleRedi, a free welfare check service funded by the Western Australian Government and delivered by the Australian Red Cross.
TeleRedi is for people who live alone, older people, those with a disability or managing chronic health conditions, people recovering from illness or injury, and those experiencing mental health challenges.
The service provides phone-based wellbeing checks for eligible people who may be at higher risk of health impacts during a heatwave, no matter where they live.