The Government has issued urgent health advice for the elderly and vulnerable to stay hydrated, keep ventilated and stay out of the direct sunlight during the sweltering heat.
Older people have been urged to take extra care during the current heatwave by minister Mary Butler.
Ms Butler has warned that people aged over 65 and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, dementia and conditions affecting their breathing, heart and kidneys can be particularly vulnerable at this time.
Read More: Record-breaking temperatures hit Dublin as Met Eireann gives heatwave update
The official advice on how to stay safe and well during hot weather includes staying hydrated.
An adult needs approximately 2 litres of liquid over 24 hours and it is recommended to put drinks in the fridge to cool.
People should keep ventilated and so it is advised to make sure older people have adequate ventilation in their homes.
And it is being warned that older people should stay out of direct sunlight for prolonged periods as much as possible during the day, especially between the hours of 11am to 3pm when UV is strongest.
Older People Minister, Ms Butler, said: “heat stress, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are potentially serious health risks for people during a heatwave.
“I urge older people, and anyone caring for someone, to take steps to stay cool and hydrated and monitor for signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
“It is important to remember that your GP or pharmacist will be able to advise you if any of your medicines might make you more likely to become ill from the heat”.
Minister Butler said she is particularly urging those who are caring for someone to be vigilant.
She added: “if you are caring for someone, they may not have a sense of how much they are drinking.
“To help them, make sure they drink during mealtimes and offer food with a high water content.”
Early intervention is essential if someone becomes unwell due to heat exhaustion, heatstroke or dehydration and people are advised to contact their GP or seek medical attention if you become dizzy, disorientated, have not urinated, or have an increased heart rate.
Minister Butler is also reminding older people to stay ‘Sunsmart.’
That means they should wear clothing that covers skin, apply sunscreen regularly - at least factor 30, put on a wide brimmed hat, seek shade wherever possible, wear sunglasses and limit the amount of time spent out in the sun.
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