As temperatures soar this week across Kent and East Sussex, reaching highs of 30°C and beyond, it’s more important than ever to prioritise health, hydration, and safety, supporting our customers through the heatwave – especially for older adults and those receiving home care. At Braeburn Care, we’ve always believed that outstanding domiciliary care isn’t just about meeting essential needs – it’s about anticipating them. And when the sun turns up the heat, so do we.
From Tunbridge Wells to Tonbridge and beyond, our care professionals have been out in the community taking proactive steps to keep our customers safe, cool, and comfortable. Because when it comes to heatwave health risks, prevention is key – and our customers’ wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do.
Why the Heat Matters
While many welcome the sunshine, heatwaves pose real risks, particularly to older people and those with existing health conditions. Rising temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke – and these can escalate quickly without proper support.
Common heat-related symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, confusion, or headaches can be easy to overlook. That’s why our care team is fully trained to recognise early warning signs and act fast. Our role goes beyond delivering care – it’s about offering peace of mind, reassurance, and real-time action when it counts most.
Adapting Our Care Services in Hot Weather
Our care professionals across Kent and East Sussex have adapted their routines this week supporting our customers through the heatwave to ensure our services are responsive, personalised, and protective. Here’s how:
Hydration Comes First
We’ve made hydration a key focus of every care visit this week – encouraging more frequent drinks and offering refreshing options such as chilled water, fruit juice, and herbal teas. Our team has introduced visual prompts and gentle reminders, particularly for those who might not feel thirsty but are still at risk of dehydration.
Keeping the Home Cool and Comfortable
From drawing curtains during the hottest hours to using portable fans and ensuring good airflow, small measures make a big difference. Many of our customers now have cooling stations set up in their homes, with shaded spaces, light blankets, and breathable clothing on hand.
We’ve also helped families check in on their loved ones’ living environments – adding fans where needed, removing heat-retaining bedding, and making sure ventilation is working effectively.
Adjusting Activities and Meals
We’ve shifted outdoor support such as walks or garden visits to the early mornings and evenings, when the air is cooler and UV exposure is lower. For meals, our carers are preparing light, nourishing options – think fresh salads, fruit bowls, and cool snacks instead of hot dishes or heavy comfort foods.
And for those who find a chat over a cup of tea uplifting, we’ve swapped the brew for iced mint tea, lemon water, or a juice and biscuit instead. It’s all about the personal touches that make someone feel supported and cared for – especially in hot weather.
Supporting Our Customers Through the Heatwave
At Braeburn Care, we see home care in a heatwave as more than a checklist. It’s about personalised home support that’s proactive, responsive, and human. We’ve conducted individual risk assessments for every customer, ensuring their care plan reflects their environment, their preferences, and their personal risk factors. This level of detail is what sets us apart and contributes to our 10/10 customer rating on homecare.co.uk.
We also stay closely connected with local public health updates, including the Met Office Heat Health Alerts, and communicate any important advice to our team and families.
Looking After Our Team, Too
Of course, our care professionals are also working hard in these challenging temperatures, travelling between homes and providing support. We’ve reminded everyone to stay hydrated, dress comfortably, and take rest breaks when needed. After all, supporting wellbeing starts with supporting each other – and our team embodies that every day.
Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat
Whether you’re receiving care, supporting a loved one, or simply looking after yourself this week, here are five practical ways to stay safe during a heatwave:
- Stay hydrated: Drink regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Keep water nearby at all times.
- Keep cool: Stay in shaded areas, wear light cotton clothing, and open windows during cooler times of the day.
- Adjust routines: Avoid outdoor activities in peak heat (11am–3pm). Move garden visits or walks to the morning or evening.
- Eat light: Choose fresh, cold meals over heavy or spicy food. Fruit, salad and yoghurt are great options.
- Stay connected: Check on neighbours, family, or friends – particularly anyone elderly or living alone.
Final Thoughts
As this warm spell continues, we’re proud to be providing safe, person-centred care across Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Crowborough and the surrounding areas. Every action we take is guided by one goal: to support our customers to live well, comfortably, and confidently – whatever the weather brings.
If you or a loved one needs extra help during this time, we’re here. Whether it’s companion care, home visits, or simply someone to check in and ensure everything is as it should be – Braeburn Care offers compassionate, local care you can trust.
📞 Call our team on 01892 577680
🌐 Visit: www.braeburncare.co.uk
