With UK weather forecasts predicting temperatures soaring to 40°C next week, older adults face serious risks from heat-related illnesses. Lilian Faithfull Care, a Gloucestershire-based charity with over 75 years of experience, has launched its “8 Glass Rule” campaign to protect vulnerable elderly people, particularly those over 75, during extreme heat. The initiative urges families to ensure their older relatives drink at least eight glasses of water daily, equivalent to 1.2 litres, to prevent dehydration, which can have deadly consequences.
In the summer of 2024, the UK recorded 1,311 heat-related deaths, with those aged 85 and over and 75 to 84 most affected, even during yellow weather alerts, according to official data. “With simple measures, most dehydration is entirely preventable,” says Suzanne Booker, Director of Care at Lilian Faithfull Care. “But without support, older people often don’t drink enough, they underestimate how much they need.”
Why older adults are at risk
Older adults are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves due to a natural decline in thirst sensation as they age. Medications, such as diuretics, or conditions like dementia can further impair hydration awareness. This increases the risk of dehydration, which can lead to confusion, dizziness, and even heatstroke. The charity advocates a “little and often” approach, encouraging small, frequent sips of water, herbal teas, or hydrating snacks like melon and cucumber to maintain fluid levels.
Free hydration tracker to support families
To make hydration easier, Lilian Faithfull Care offers a free, downloadable “8 Glass Hydration Tracker.” This fridge-friendly guide helps older adults and their families monitor daily fluid intake. It includes checkboxes for each glass consumed, a list of dehydration symptoms to watch for—such as confusion, dark urine, or dizziness—and suggestions for hydrating foods like watermelon and celery. “It’s about gentle reminders, not nagging,” adds Suzanne Booker. “A simple tick on a chart gives dignity, keeps health visible and could help keep someone out of hospital.”
Practical tips for families
Lilian Faithfull Care provides five actionable steps to help families protect elderly relatives during a heatwave:
- Provide easy access to water. Ensure water bottles or cups are placed within easy reach, such as beside a favourite chair or on a bedside table, to encourage sipping throughout the day.
- Create a cool environment. Use fans, air conditioning, or close blinds during the hottest hours to keep living spaces cool.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol. Encourage non-caffeinated drinks like herbal teas, coconut water, or diluted fruit juices, as coffee, tea, and alcohol can worsen dehydration.
- Encourage rest. Overexertion increases dehydration risk, so promote rest in a comfortable, cool environment and avoid strenuous activities.
- Check on them frequently. Regular check-ins, in person or by phone, ensure elderly relatives stay hydrated and free from heat-related issues, especially if they live alone.
Wider context of heatwave risks
The urgency of the campaign is underscored by rising heat-related deaths across Europe, with a 2023 analysis reporting nearly 48,000 fatalities due to extreme heat. As climate change drives more frequent and intense heatwaves, the UK is seeing temperatures climb higher, with the south-east hitting 35°C in 2025, according to The Independent. Older adults, particularly those with chronic conditions or on medications affecting temperature regulation, are at heightened risk. Simple actions, like ensuring regular fluid intake and maintaining a cool home, can significantly reduce these dangers.
Lilian Faithfull Care’s campaign empowers families to take proactive steps, offering practical tools and advice to safeguard elderly loved ones. By promoting small, consistent habits, the charity aims to prevent avoidable health crises and ensure older adults stay safe and comfortable during extreme heat.
