As temperatures rise during the summer months, long term care providers should be prepared to protect residents from the risks associated with extreme heat. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses due to chronic medical conditions, medications, decreased mobility, and a reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Even short-term exposure to high temperatures can place residents at serious risk if providers are not prepared.
To adequately prepare for a hot summer, maintenance staff should complete preventive maintenance and seasonal inspections of HVAC systems to reduce the likelihood of unexpected failures during peak season demands. Facility leadership should review and update emergency preparedness plans that address heat emergencies and prolonged air conditioning outages. This includes items such as:
- Verifying vendor relationships for HVAC repair,
- Gathering, testing, and servicing portable cooling equipment and fans,
- Topping off emergency generator fuel supplies,
- Verifying alternate care locations and evacuation agreements.
Keeping residents cool and hydrated during periods of elevated temperatures is critical. Staff should closely monitor indoor temperatures throughout the facility, with a specific focus on resident sleeping rooms and areas where there is known to be limited air flow. Consider the following tips for managing temperatures and keeping residents comfortable:
- Provide cold water, refresh frequently, and encourage hydration, to drink more than usual as residents should not wait until they are thirsty to drink.
- Note: For those residents on fluid restrictions, check with their doctor how much they should drink in hot weather.
- Keep blinds, curtains, and drapes closed in areas of the building that receive direct sunlight.
- Encourage loose, lightweight clothing and provide breathable bedding.
- Turn off lights as well as other heat-producing appliances whenever possible.
- Limit outdoor activities and strenuous activities.
- Move residents to cooler areas of the building.
- Conduct additional observation rounds.
- Set up fans and other cooling equipment around the building, if available. Use fans only if indoor temperatures are less than 90ºF. Above 90ºF, a fan can increase body temperature.
- Consider serving a non-cooking menu.
Additional tips and information are available on the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control’s (CDC) website.
As part of your annual Emergency Preparedness Program (EPP) review and update, ensure that high heat / loss of air conditioning scenarios are fully addressed. A comprehensive plan should include:
- Strategies for maintaining a comfortable, safe environment.
- Contact lists for HVAC vendors and emergency repair services.
- Details of HVAC service agreements and backup options.
- Contingency plans for evacuation, which may be necessary if air conditioning systems are down for an extended period.
Preparing for extreme heat before temperatures rise can help protect residents, support staff, and reduce operational disruptions.
Visit the AHCA/NCAL website for additional emergency preparedness tools, resources, and guidance.