Summer might be almost over, but temperatures outside are still sweltering and could be posing a danger to the elderly.
“Elderly have a hard time regulating body temperature,” said Randi Chew, vice president of development for the Peninsula Agency on Aging. “They don’t sweat like [younger people] do, so they don’t have that to cool them down and it can impact a number of health issues.”
Chew is one of the leaders of PAA’s Senior Cool Care program, which provides fans and air conditioning units to elderly residents who can’t afford to buy their own. The program has been in place for more than a decade, but Chew said they are providing resources for more people than ever before.
The program is possible through a partnership with Dominion Energy, which provides a grant that allows the organization to buy fans and air conditioning units in bulk for the summer. These are only available to those who qualify, which means they have to be at least 60 years old, need additional cooling services, and fit into a particular income bracket.
Chew said people usually start requesting those services in May but a consistent number of individuals seek assistance throughout the summer.
This year, the program started with 110 fans and 12 window air conditioning units. After approximately three months, the program has given away all of its fans and more than half of the window units.
To help out, Chew said locals can either give money or donate a fan to the program.
Chew said having a fan in the home can cause a significant impact on health because it helps to regulate the temperature. While an air conditioning unit does cool down a home, sometimes it can make a residence too cold which can irritate a person’s arthritis or other health issues.
But having a fan allows seniors to create a more even temperature that benefits multiple aspects of their physical health. The choice between an air conditioning unit or a fan is entirely up to an individual’s preference.
Chew said while people are more aware of the program than ever before, it is important for family members and friends of seniors to keep an eye on their loved ones and monitor what resources they might need to endure extreme temperatures.
“We have to look out for our elderly neighbors,” she said. “The summer is almost over but it’s still hot. It’s still dangerous.”
Chew suggested making sure seniors remain indoors on hot days and if it’s necessary to leave the home, to do so in the early morning. Additionally, seniors should wear lightweight clothing and drink plenty of fluids.
“Our goal is to help people age in place,” Chew said. “Providing something like a little box fan allows people to stay comfortably in their homes and can make a big difference.”
To learn more, visit PAA online.
