On Friday 3 July 2026, Luxembourg’s Ministry of Health and Social Security announced a reminder about the national monitoring service for vulnerable elderly people during periods of high temperatures, encouraging eligible residents to register ahead of possible further heat episodes this summer.
According to the ministry, the service is provided by the Luxembourg Red Cross, the Directorate of Health and COPAS for people aged 75 and over who live alone, have limited autonomy and do not receive assistance through Luxembourg's long-term care insurance. The monitoring service is free of charge for beneficiaries.
To date, around 540 people have been registered under the scheme and assigned to a home care and assistance network. The network carries out an initial assessment visit, followed by monitoring visits and hydration support during periods of extreme heat.
The ministry noted that some registered beneficiaries chose to opt out of follow-up visits after informing care providers that they were already receiving regular support from family members and signing a waiver.
Following the heatwave at the end of June, the authorities warned that further periods of high temperatures remain possible during the summer. People who previously signed a waiver, as well as those eligible for the service but not yet registered, are invited to contact the Luxembourg Red Cross if they wish to register or re-register. Registration is available by telephone on 27-55, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) from 08:00 to 17:00, or by email at canicule@croix-rouge.lu.
Once registered, beneficiaries are supported by a home care and assistance network, with coordination between the Luxembourg Red Cross and the various care providers ensured by COPAS. The ministry stressed that beneficiaries should answer the door when care staff visit or notify their home care network if they will be absent.
The authorities also reminded the public to remain vigilant for symptoms associated with heat-related illness, including discomfort, unusual fatigue, dizziness, headaches, confusion and fever. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to seek medical advice promptly, while emergencies should be reported by calling 112.
The ministry added that the monitoring scheme forms part of Luxembourg's measures to protect vulnerable people during periods of extreme heat and to help prevent heat-related health complications.
