Heatwave: key points for protecting the health of older people

The summer of 2025 is marking a new milestone in Spain's climate history. The current heatwave, which began in early August, has brought extreme temperatures—exceeding 105°F in several regions—and a notable increase in associated mortality. According to data from the Carlos III Health Institute, more than 1,500 deaths have been attributed to extreme heat so far this season, with older people being particularly affected.

High temperatures are not only uncomfortable; they have a direct impact on health, causing dehydration, exacerbating chronic diseases, heat stress, and even potentially fatal heatstroke.

Climate change is making these episodes more frequent, intense, and prolonged. The most vulnerable groups include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant women, people with reduced mobility or neurological diseases (Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's), patients with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, and those who work outdoors.

With aging, the ability to regulate body temperature decreases and the sensation of thirst diminishes, which, combined with medical conditions and certain medications, increases the risk of complications.

Warning signs to watch for

• Heat exhaustion: profuse sweating, cramps, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid and weak pulse.
• Heatstroke: hot, dry skin, absence of sweat, high fever, confusion, or loss of consciousness.
• Beyond these acute symptoms, many older adults with chronic illnesses see their health worsen during these episodes, especially those who are on multiple medications, dependent on others, or live alone.
• Recommendations for this summer
• Never leave people, children, or animals in closed vehicles, even for a few minutes. Also make sure that pets have access to shade and water.
• Stay hydrated: drink 2 to 3 liters of fluids a day, prioritizing water, natural juices, or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, sugary drinks, and excessively cold beverages.
• Plan activities for early in the morning or late in the afternoon, including shopping and household chores. Take frequent breaks.
• Wear appropriate clothing: loose-fitting, breathable cotton garments, preferably light-colored. Cover your head when going outside.
• Seek shelter in cool places: ventilate your home at night and keep it closed during the hottest hours of the day.
• Sun protection: high sunscreen (SPF 50+ on the face and body) and approved sunglasses.
• Eat light meals rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding fried and salty foods that increase thirst.
• Take lukewarm showers or baths, avoiding sudden changes in temperature and waiting at least two hours after eating.
• Actively supervise older people, especially if they are dependent or live alone.
• Check medication with your doctor for possible interactions with heat, especially diuretics, antihypertensives, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and medications that require cold storage.
• Be alert for symptoms of exhaustion: rest in a cool place and replenish fluids.
• Use fans and air conditioning safely; if air conditioning is not available, go to public places with cooling systems such as shopping centers, libraries, or movie theaters.

Preparing for more extreme summers

This summer's experience confirms that extreme heat waves are now a recurring reality.

The combination of prevention, medical monitoring, and social support networks is essential to protect the health of older adults and other vulnerable groups.

Taking care of these issues today not only saves lives, but also prepares the community to face an increasingly hot future.