The Effects of Temperature Changes in California's RCF Residents
When it comes to hot temperatures California ranks among the hottest states in the US, especially on those hot summer days. It’s no surprise that you may feel that every summer feels hotter than the last. However, seniors and the Developmentally disabled are the most vulnerable groups regarding these rising temperatures. Extreme heat or cold can have a serious impact on their health and even affect their mood. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature, and this only gets worse if those seniors have chronic medical conditions that these changes can aggravate.
Licensed Care Facilities in California must comply with title code regulation 87691 section b.
“A comfortable temperature for residents shall be maintained at all times.
(1) The facility shall heat rooms that residents occupy to a minimum of 68 degrees F, (20 degrees C).
(2) The facility shall cool rooms to a comfortable range, between 78 degrees F (26 degrees C) and 85 degrees F (30 degrees C), or in areas of extreme heat to 30 degrees F less than the outside temperature.
(3) Nothing in this section shall prohibit residents from adjusting individual thermostatic controls.”
Improving Senior's Quality of Life
Extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Heat stroke is a more serious condition that can occur when the body’s temperature rises to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, unconsciousness, and seizures.
Even moderate changes in temperature can be problematic for the elderly. A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that exposure to temperatures that are too hot or cold can lead to an increased risk of hospitalization for seniors.
Along with this Seniors and Developmentally Disabled Patients might become more irritable, withdrawn, or even depressed. Temperature can also affect their cognitive abilities, making it difficult for them to think clearly or make decisions. Therefore complicating the Job of the caregiver.
Batteries as a Cost-Saving Solution?
One of the main issues when maintaining temperatures in care facilities, especially during hot summer is the cost of electricity. Over the years along with the increase in temperature, the consumption and the prices of electricity have also risen.
However, the implementation of rechargeable batteries in licensed care facilities may be a viable option to start looking into if you want to save money over time. These can get installed inside the facility and charge depending on the type of energy you decide.
Our mission as Ca Care Association is to educate, preserve, and develop Home and Community-Based Programs that enhance the safety and well-being of California's most vulnerable residents in senior and adult communities; that is a self-determined and person-centered approach. By lowering the cost of operating licensed care facilities can make progress in becoming more sustainable and financially fortified when planning to transition from dependence on the main electrical grip into having the location harvest, store, and generate power for the home.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0218262
http://www.cdss.ca.gov/getinfo/pdf/rcfe4.pdf
