How to plan for hot weather when an older parent lives alone 

Hot weather can be harder to manage when an older parent lives alone. A few practical arrangements before a very hot day can make a big difference, especially around meals, shopping, transport and regular check-ins. 

Older people are at higher risk of heat-related illness, particularly if they live with chronic health conditions, take certain medicines or are socially isolated. Healthdirect recommends planning ahead, staying hydrated, keeping the home cool and checking in on older relatives during hot weather. 

Here is a simple summer checklist to work through together. 

Decide who will call or visit and how often. During very hot weather, check-in on older friends and relatives at least once a day. 

That could mean: 

It also helps to agree on what to do if your parent does not answer. 

Older people may not always feel thirst as strongly, which can increase the risk of dehydration. 

Before a hot spell, check that there is: 

If getting to the shops is difficult, grocery shopping support or meal preparation may help reduce the need to go out during the hottest part of the day. 

Have a look at the rooms your parent actually uses during the day. 

Use fans or air conditioning where available, closing curtains and blinds during the day and spending time in the coolest room in the home. 

It is worth checking: 

If home is uncomfortable, a cooler location such as a library or shopping centre may be an option. 

Appointments, shopping and social activities do not always need to happen at the usual time. It’s best to plan around the heat and avoiding being outdoors during the hottest part of the day where possible. 

Consider moving: 

Transport support can also help if driving, walking or waiting for public transport becomes harder in hot weather. 

If your parent receives Support at Home, look at what is already scheduled. Some visits may become particularly useful during hotter weather, including: 

It may also be worth talking with the provider if visit times need to change temporarily. A morning visit, for example, may work better than an afternoon outing during a heatwave. 

Heat-related illness can include dehydration, dizziness, tiredness and confusion. Heatstroke can become life-threatening. If your parent feels unwell during hot weather, follow appropriate medical advice. 

If they become seriously unwell or do not improve quickly after cooling and rehydration, Healthdirect advises calling Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. 

A little preparation can make summer days easier to manage while helping an older parent continue their usual routines at home. 

A little preparation can make summer days easier to manage while helping an older parent continue their usual routines at home. 

If your parent receives Support at Home, Leora can help review practical arrangements during warmer weather. 

That might include help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, transport, social support or adjusting service times where appropriate. 

Speak with one of our Care Partners today if you would like to review your parent’s support arrangements before the hotter weeks arrive.