Help Check In On Elderly

TRANSCARE is urging the community to check in on the elderly today to make sure they are coping with the heat as the temperature is set to climb to 43 degrees.

According to Samm Turri, care coordinator at TransCare in 2009 when there were consecutive days of 43 degrees Celsius in Victoria there were almost 1,000 deaths related to the heat.

TransCare volunteers Sue and Denis White with client Audrey Johnston.

“The heat can actually be deadly to older people in our community,” said Ms Turri.

“People over the age of 75 are especially at risk of health issues related to the heat and we encourage the community to check in on the elderly at least once a day,” she said.

“If they don’t have air conditioning, taking them somewhere that does can give some relief, such as the library, shopping or to a movie can be helpful,” she said.

“Check they have plenty of cold water in their fridge and are slowly sipping on water throughout the day.

“Also check that their fridge is working well in the hot weather, so that their food is kept cool and they are not at risk of food poisoning.

“Encourage them to call someone if they feel unwell at any stage, the earlier they can get medical attention the better,” she said.

“And if they have a pet it is important to check they have enough water and can stay cool also,” she said.

“TransCare’s volunteers check in with clients through our TeleCare service each morning and those who provide Meals on Wheels and other home services are being extra vigilant to ensure they are coping well with the heat, but the more members of the community who can care for our elderly the better,” Samm Turri said.