Keeping Cool When the Cotswolds Turns Tropical

By Guy Olson, Equity Release Partnership

As I’m sat here in my office typing, the Met Office has issued a Red Extreme Heat Warning for much of the South of the UK, specifically covering the Cotswolds.

Now, by the time this newsletter lands on your inbox, there’s every chance we’ll all be reaching for jumpers, umbrellas and wondering whether summer has quietly packed its bags and gone abroad without telling us. After all, this is Britain, where a week can contain all four seasons and a hosepipe ban.

However, while the sun is shining and temperatures are climbing into territory normally reserved for Mediterranean holidays, it’s worth taking a moment to think about those who can be most vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

As a business, many of the clients we help are in later life. Some are living independently, some have health conditions, and others may be receiving support from family members or carers. Older people are often more susceptible to dehydration and heat-related illness, which means periods of extreme heat deserve particular attention.

That said, the advice in this article applies to all of us. Whether you’re 25 or 85, hot weather can catch people out surprisingly quickly, especially if they’re busy, working outdoors, travelling, exercising, or simply forgetting to drink enough fluids throughout the day.

For many of us, a hot day means a barbecue, an ice cream and perhaps a gentle complaint that it’s “too hot to sleep”. For others, particularly older people, those living with dementia, and individuals with underlying health conditions, high temperatures can present a genuine health risk.

One of the biggest challenges is that some people simply don’t realise they’re becoming dehydrated. Others may not feel thirsty, may forget to drink, or may be reluctant to get up and fetch a drink. That’s why small acts of support from family members, friends, carers and neighbours can make a surprisingly big difference.

Hydration Matters More Than You Think

When temperatures rise, staying hydrated becomes one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay well.

A few practical ideas include:

• Keeping a bottle of water within easy reach
• Leaving a jug and glass somewhere visible
• Offering smaller drinks regularly rather than one large drink
• Providing water-rich foods such as melon, cucumber, oranges and fruit salads
• Ice lollies, yoghurt, jelly and smoothies can all help increase fluid intake
• Adding fruit slices or ice to drinks can make them more appealing

For people living with dementia, it can often be more effective to place a drink nearby rather than asking whether they would like one. Sometimes the simplest approach works best.

Looking Out for Family Members

If you have an older relative living independently, a quick phone call or visit during hot weather can provide valuable reassurance.

Before the hottest part of the day arrives, it may help to ensure they have plenty of drinks available, some easy-to-prepare food, and that curtains or blinds are closed on sun-facing windows.

It’s also worth keeping an eye out for any changes in behaviour. Increased confusion, unusual tiredness, dizziness or a general sense that someone isn’t quite themselves can sometimes be early signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.

Keeping Homes Cool

Most Cotswold homes were built long before anyone thought air conditioning might one day be useful in Gloucestershire.

Simple measures can help keep indoor temperatures more comfortable:

• Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day
• Open windows early in the morning and later in the evening when temperatures fall
• Avoid sitting in direct sunlight
• Wear loose, light-coloured clothing
• Use fans safely if available
• Apply a cool flannel or damp cloth to the neck and wrists if feeling overheated

It is also worth checking that medicines are stored according to the instructions on the packaging, as some medications can be affected by excessive heat.

Warning Signs Not to Ignore

Keep an eye out for:

• Dry mouth or lips
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Unusual fatigue or weakness
• Darker urine
• Reduced trips to the toilet
• Confusion or increased agitation
• Nausea
• Feeling faint or generally unwell

If you’re concerned about someone’s health, NHS 111 can provide advice. In an emergency, always call 999.

A Reminder to Look After Ourselves Too

Whether you’re a family member, a carer, a business owner, or simply someone trying to keep up with daily life, it’s easy to forget that we can be affected by the heat as well.

Drink plenty of fluids, avoid overdoing it during the hottest hours of the day, and remember that there’s absolutely no shame in postponing the lawn mowing until the temperature drops a few degrees.

The Cotswolds is one of the most beautiful places in the country, but even our honey-coloured stone cottages can feel a little less charming when they’re acting like pizza ovens.

A little common sense, a few extra glasses of water, and checking in on those around us can go a long way towards helping everyone stay safe and comfortable during the warmer weather.

And if you’re reading this while wearing a fleece and wondering where summer went, rest assured, you’ve simply experienced another perfectly normal British heatwave!

About the Author

Guy Olson – Managing Partner, The Equity Release Partnership

Guy is a later life financial specialist with a background in equity release and wealth planning. He works closely with solicitors, accountants, care providers and financial advisers to help clients make smart, practical decisions about their finances, whether that’s funding care, supporting family or navigating the financial challenges of later life. Guy is a member of the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) and the Equity Release Council, and brings a clear, down-to-earth approach to topics that can otherwise feel daunting.

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