Extreme 40°C heatwave expected to cause sleepless nights and heighten risks for older people

With a rare red weather warning now in place from the Met Office, high humidity and ‘Tropical Nights’ are expected to keep overnight temperatures above 20°C.

As a result, families are being urged to check in on elderly relatives, who may be at greater risk during the extreme heat. 

For older individuals, the heat can quickly become dangerous. This is because many are less able to regulate body temperature yet more likely to become dehydrated,  meaning they may struggle to recover after hot, restless nights. With sleep disruption leaving people tired, weak and less able to cope the following day, simple check-ins from family, friends and neighbours could make a real difference.

Leighton Roberts, Managing Director at Grosvenor Mobility, says: “Hot weather can feel especially draining for older people,  while disturbed sleep can make the effects harder to manage. Simple steps like regularly hydrating, resting during the hottest parts of the day and keeping curtains closed when the sun is strongest can make a real difference. This will additionally help to keep your bedroom cooler overnight. 

We would also encourage families, friends and neighbours to check in on older loved ones, especially those who live alone or struggle with day-to-day mobility. A quick phone call or visit can help make sure they are coping comfortably with the warmer weather.”

Placing water within reach overnight, utilising lightweight bedding and opening windows for airflow (where safe to do so) may also help support better sleep during warm nights.

Heat can quickly affect comfort, energy levels and rest, which may leave older people feeling less able to cope during spells of high temperatures. A restful home setup can help them feel safer, more comfortable and independent as warmer weather approaches.

Leighton adds, “Supportive furniture, such as riser recliner chairs and adjustable beds, can make rest more comfortable during hotter weather, particularly for those who need to elevate their legs, change position with ease or settle into a more supportive posture when relaxing at home.”

Preparing the home for warmer days ahead can help support overall comfort and well-being. Grosvenor Mobility offers mobility-friendly furniture designed to help customers rest more comfortably at home, with made-to-measure options and free home trials available. Explore the range to create a more restful home environment suitable for all temperatures in time for the UK’s hottest week.