Seniors And Heat Safety: Protecting Vulnerable Individuals During Extreme Temperatures

As summer approaches, rising temperatures bring an increased risk of heatwaves and wildfires, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. In 2021, British Columbia experienced a devastating heat dome that resulted in over 600 heat-related deaths. Sadly, seniors were disproportionately affected, with the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) reporting a 100% increase in deaths among adults aged 50 and older during this event. Many of those who passed away had underlying health conditions such as schizophrenia, diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory issues, making them even more vulnerable to extreme heat.

Many seniors live alone or far from family, which reduces the likelihood of someone being able to check on them during extreme weather. As these climate-related events become more common, prioritizing seniors and heat safety will be crucial in preventing unnecessary and premature deaths.

How Home Care Workers Support Senior Heat Safety

Home care workers play an essential role in ensuring seniors stay safe and cool during heatwaves. They can take several preventive steps, including:

• Taking seniors to cool, nearby locations (e.g., shopping malls) where they can relax and escape the heat.
• Encouraging seniors to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Preparing meals that contain high water content (e.g., fruits and vegetables) and don’t require oven use.
• Ensuring that fans and air conditioners are functioning properly and adjusting them as needed.
• Closing blinds or curtains to block out sunlight during the day.
• Notifying family caregivers if cooling devices are needed or require maintenance.
• Assisting seniors with cool showers or baths to help them feel refreshed.

Accessing Care With Gravitii During Heat-Related Events

At Gravitii, we strive to protect seniors by making it easier for vulnerable individuals to access home care during extreme weather events. Using our platform, individuals can quickly connect with care providers based on location, availability, and personal preferences. This allows seniors to receive the care they need when it matters most, especially during dangerous heatwaves, where timely assistance can mean the difference between life and death.