Blazing temperatures may put a smile on the faces of most people, but for the elderly, hot weather can pose a threat to health.

As people grow older, the response of the body to higher temperatures changes. Elderly people do not adjust as well as younger people to sudden changes – they are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that alters normal body responses to heat, and are more likely to take prescription medicines that inhibit perspiration and cooling.

This week, the charity Age UK issued a warning to pensioners to take care in the heat. It advises them to stay indoors, wear light clothing and drink plenty of water.

Julie Page, community matron and nurse practitioner at Bradford District Care Trust, is only too aware of the dangers. “Heat is a real concern for the elderly,” she says. “Any extremes of temperature can affect their health and wellbeing.”

“If they don’t drink enough and look after themselves, they can be prone to heat stroke and dehydration, and if they have got any chronic health problems such as diabetes or an abnormal kidney function, they can be exacerbated. The body needs a lot of energy and fluids.

“They can get cramps and dizziness, and generally become quite unwell. They are also more prone to infection due to being run down and a little dehydrated.”

The most serious heat-related illness – heat stroke – leaves the body unable to control its temperature, causing rapid rises. The body loses its ability to sweat and is unable to cool down. Heat exhaustion is a milder form that manifests itself in symptoms including heavy sweating, muscle cramps and tiredness.

Julie’s team receive alerts when the weather is hot or cold and contacts vulnerable patients to offer guidance. “We ring people and in extremes of weather we visit them more often. If anyone is worried, we advise them to lie down, keep cool, drink sufficient fluids such as water and fruit juice and take regular snacks. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided.

“We suggest that clothing should be light, cotton, and not too tight or restrictive.”

The team also support local nursing and care homes. “As well as increasing fluids we suggest using fans to keep residents cool,” says Julie.

“If the sun is blazing down we suggest people close the curtains to limit the heat coming in, and open windows. We also advise older people not to go out in the sun between 11am and 3pm.”

As temperatures soar, an increasing number of people arrive at hospital due to the effects of heat, says Julie. “They become hydrated, more susceptible to infections and then they may collapse.”

Jean Walker, founder and chairman of Bradford and District Senior Power, believes that many people are unaware of how dangerous the power of the sun can be. “If you do go outside, then try to find some shade to sit in, and apply some sun protection.”

Inside the house, she makes sure she keeps air circulating in her home. “I have the windows open, but am very conscious of the need to remember to close them. If you’re not used to having them open, it is sensible to leave notes reminding yourself to shut them.”

She adds: “I always carry a bottle of water around the house and keep having a sip. I also try and sit down as much as possible, but make sure I walk about a little in between.

“People don’t eat as much in hot weather and it is important to watch how much you have. Hot weather can drain your energy so you need to keep it up.”

As well as light clothing, she recommends a hat. “We wear a hat in winter to keep warm. It is equally important in summer to keep cool.”

Michelle Mitchell, charity director at Age UK says: “The importance of staying cool in hot weather cannot be over-estimated for older people, especially at night between successive hot days. It is extremely important that older people take sensible precautions during a heatwave, particularly if they have breathing problems or a heart condition.

“We advise staying indoors during the worst of the heat, wearing light clothing, drinking plenty of fluids and eating normally, trying to have more cold foods, particularly salads and fruits which contain water.”

She adds that anyone with an older family member or neighbour can help by calling in to check to see if they are okay.

For Age UK’s free guide ‘Staying Cool in a Heatwave’, ring 0800 169 6565, or visit ageuk.org.uk.