South Africa Is Getting Hotter—And Older Adults Are Most at Risk
South Africa is known for its long, hot summers—especially between December and March, when temperatures can soar well above 30°C. But in recent years, heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, putting vulnerable people at even greater risk.
Older adults are particularly affected. As we age, our bodies find it harder to regulate temperature and stay hydrated, making high heat not just uncomfortable but dangerous. What might feel like a normal hot day to some can lead to serious illness or even hospitalisation for someone over 60.
With climate change pushing temperatures higher each year, it’s more important than ever to understand how extreme heat affects older adults and what steps can be taken to stay safe and well.
In this article, we’ll explore why older adults are more vulnerable to heat, the warning signs to watch out for, and how Bloom’s Health4Me plans can help ensure you or your loved ones get the care you need—quickly and affordably.
Why Older Adults Are More Vulnerable to Heat
As we age, our bodies don’t respond to heat the same way they used to. According to Harvard Medical School, older adults are more likely to develop heat-related illnesses, even when the temperature doesn’t seem extreme.
Here’s why:
- Less thirst, more dehydration
Many older adults don’t feel thirsty as quickly, which means they may not drink enough water, especially on hot days. This increases the risk of dehydration, which can lead to confusion, fatigue, and even fainting.
- Medications can affect heat tolerance
Some common medications for high blood pressure, heart conditions, or depression can interfere with the body’s ability to stay cool or hold onto fluids.
- Chronic health conditions add strain
Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and kidney problems can worsen in high temperatures. The body has to work harder to stay balanced, putting more stress on vital organs.
All of this means that even mild heat can quickly become dangerous for seniors. That’s why it’s so important to take heat warnings seriously and check in with a doctor if you’re not feeling well.
Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses to Watch For
When it comes to extreme heat, symptoms of illness can appear suddenly and without much warning, especially in older adults. That’s why it’s so important to recognise the early signs and act quickly.
Common signs of heat-related illness include:
- Heavy sweating – or in some cases, no sweating at all, which can signal heat stroke
- Dizziness, light-headedness, or confusion
- Rapid heartbeat or a weak pulse
- Headaches, nausea, or vomiting
These symptoms may seem small at first, but can quickly become serious if ignored. If you or a loved one starts feeling unwell in the heat, don’t wait—get to a cool place and consult a healthcare professional.
Also, watch out for heat rash, a common condition that can cause red bumps, itching, and discomfort in hot weather. Learn how to spot and treat it in our guide:
Heat Rash – How to Spot It & What to Do
Reminder: If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in an older adult, speak to a doctor right away. Your Health4Me plan gives you access to in-person or virtual consultations through Hello Doctor, making it easy to get help when you need it most.
How to Stay Safe in South Africa’s Heat
South Africa’s summers are known for their long, hot days, especially from December to March, but heatwaves can also occur during spring and autumn. For older adults, even a short time in high temperatures can lead to serious health problems.
Here are some simple tips to help you or your loved ones stay safe:
- Stay indoors between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton
- Drink water often—even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Keep cool with fans, wet cloths on the neck and wrists, or a cool shower
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body
These small actions can make a big difference in preventing heat-related illness.
For more advice on beating the heat, don’t miss our guide:
Tips for Staying Cool and Safe in South Africa’s Heat
What to Do If You’re Not Feeling Well
When your body struggles to cope with high temperatures, it can lead to two serious conditions: heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
What’s the difference?
- Heat exhaustion is the body’s early warning sign. You might feel weak, dizzy, nauseous, or sweaty, and your heart may race.
- Heat stroke is more serious and can be life-threatening. It often follows untreated heat exhaustion and is marked by confusion, a lack of sweating, and even loss of consciousness.
If you or someone you’re with experiences any of the following, don’t wait—get medical help immediately:
- You feel dizzy, faint, or confused
- You’ve stopped sweating even though you’re very hot
- Symptoms don’t improve after cooling down with water, rest, or shade
Fast action is critical. With prompt care, heat-related illness is treatable, and serious complications can be avoided.
If you’re a Health4Me member, you can speak to a doctor right away using Hello Doctor—no appointment needed. Whether it’s a quick phone call or a virtual consultation, help is just a tap away.
How Health4Me Can Help You Get Medical Support Quickly
If you or a loved one isn’t feeling well during a heatwave, you don’t need to wait or worry about the cost. With Health4Me, help is easy to access and always within reach.
Here’s how your cover can support you:
- Unlimited GP visits
See a network doctor in person as many times as you need to. This is ideal if you’re feeling unwell or need a physical check-up.
- Hello Doctor – 24/7 virtual consultations
Talk to a qualified GP anytime, from anywhere. During a heatwave, this means you can get medical advice from the comfort of your home.
- Pathology & radiology referrals
If your doctor suspects heat-related illness, they can refer you for blood tests or X-rays through the Health4Me network—no extra admin needed.
- Specialist visits on the Gold Plan
If further care is required, members on the Gold tier can access up to 2 specialist visits per year, with a referral from a network GP.
If you or a loved one is feeling ill during a heatwave, you can speak to a doctor right away—online or in person—with your Health4Me cover.
👉 Explore the Health4Me Gold Plan
Stay Cool, Stay Safe, Stay Covered
Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous, especially for older adults. But with the right knowledge, simple precautions, and access to quality healthcare, heat-related illness can be prevented and managed.
If you or someone you care about starts feeling unwell in hot weather, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A quick check-in with a doctor can make all the difference—and with Health4Me, it’s simple and affordable to do so.
Your health and comfort matter, especially during extreme weather. With Bloom and Health4Me, staying safe is within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What precautions should the elderly take during a heat wave?
- Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm).
- Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
- Use fans, cold compresses, or take cool showers to bring down body temperature.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabric like cotton.
How to treat heat exhaustion in the elderly?
- Move the person to a shaded or cool indoor space immediately.
- Offer water or a drink with electrolytes—avoid caffeine or alcohol.
- Use cool cloths on the neck, wrists, and forehead, or use a fan.
- If symptoms don’t improve or get worse, contact a doctor or emergency services right away.
How long does it take to fully recover from heat exhaustion?
- Mild cases may improve within a few hours to 1–2 days with proper rest and hydration.
- Severe cases might take longer and should be monitored by a healthcare provider to avoid complications.
How to help someone with heat exhaustion?
- Help them lie down in a cool, shaded place.
- Loosen or remove heavy clothing to help cool the body.
- Offer small sips of water, not too quickly.
- Stay with them and monitor symptoms. If there’s no improvement, seek medical help immediately.
