Age Action has urged the general public to check on older neighbours, especially those living alone, during the current warm weather, with Met Eireann forecasting that temperatures could hit 27 or 28 degrees Celsius today.
“While the warm weather is welcome, it can pose difficulties for older people, especially those with respiratory and heart problems,” Age Action spokesperson Eamon Timmins said. “Certain medications can also reduce people’s tolerance of heat.”
Age Action is urging people to call or visit their older friends and neighours to ensure they are okay. “With temperatures due to reach up to 28 degrees today, older people should try to remain in the shade at the hottest times of the day, pulling curtains on windows which are exposed to the sun, sipping on cold drinks to remain hydrated, turning off unnecessary electrical equipment and leaving windows open to let air circulate,” Mr Timmins said.
“We are not used to high temperatures in Ireland, but people should be aware that heatwaves in other countries have resulted in increased deaths among older people,” he said. “Everyone can play their part to ensure that everyone remains well during the current warm spell.”
