By Dr. Kirsten Protherough | GP, Frailty Consultant, Chair of the Community
As Europe and the UK endure an unprecedented record‑breaking heatwave (temperatures over 35 °C), older adults with frailty are at significantly increased risk of dehydration and delirium.
🔎 Why Older Adults Are at High Risk
- Altered body response Frail older people have a reduced sense of thirst, impaired sweating, and lower fluid reserves
- Medication impact Diuretics, antihypertensives, and other common medications can exacerbate dehydration during extreme heat.
- High mortality rates In June 2024, England recorded 1,311 extra deaths from heat, especially among the 75‑84 and 85+ age groups. During this summer’s first heatwave (19–22 June 2025), an estimated 570 heat-related deaths occurred in England alone
- Prevalence of dehydration Nearly 60% of older adults consume less than the recommended 2 L of fluids daily — a serious risk during heatwaves
🚨 The Link: Dehydration → Delirium
Delirium is an acute decline in mental function — sudden confusion, agitation, or drowsiness. Even mild dehydration can trigger it in frail individuals, worsening outcomes and increasing hospital admissions.
✅ Practical Carer Tips for Heatwave Safety
- Know baseline behaviour Spot shifts in alertness, speech, or mood early.
- Find a way to measure intake if you can
- Offer fluids frequently Aim for small drinks every 1–2 hours — juice, soup, flavoured water, jelly, or melon all count.
- Use visual hydration triggers Place colourful drinks in sights and labeled jugs beside the person.
- Monitor “dry” signs Look for dark urine, dry mouth, or dizziness.
- Reduce heat exposure Close curtains during peak sun, circulate airflow, apply cool cloths to pulse points.
- Flag medication concerns Report dizziness, low BP reading, or poor fluid intake promptly.
- Speak up early A carer's intuition ("she’s not right today") can be lifesaving.
💡 Why This Matters for Your Team
- Delirium isn’t minor — it increases fall risk, hospital admission, pressure ulcers, and care home placement.
- Hydration is low-cost and effective, yet often overlooked without training and structured routines.
- Your vigilance can stop a crisis before it starts — keeping clients safer, reducing admissions, and giving families peace of mind.
📣 Want to Improve Your Team's Confidence in Frailty?
If you're a care agency, registered manager, or home care group and you'd like:
- Support on delirium prevention
- Frailty-focused staff training
- Expert clinical frailty support at senior management and board level
👉 Contact me to explore my frailty consultancy services
📧 Email: kirsten@upskillforfrailty.com
