1. A Comparison of Heat Wave Response Plans From an Aged Care Facility Perspective.
- Author
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Okwuofu-Thomas, Benjamin, Beggs, Paul J., and MacKenzie, Ross J.
- Subjects
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PHYSIOLOGICAL effects of heat , *MEDICAL protocols , *EMERGENCY management , *GOVERNMENT agencies , *AIR conditioning , *BATHS , *CLOTHING & dress , *COMMUNICATION , *DRINKING (Physiology) , *HEALTH , *HEAT , *HOSPITALS , *INGESTION , *INTERPERSONAL relations , *LONG-term health care , *NURSING home patients , *NURSING care facilities , *PATIENT safety , *INFORMATION resources , *EVALUATION research , *INSTITUTIONAL cooperation , *PHYSICAL activity , *OLD age , *PREVENTION - Abstract
Heat waves result in significant excess mortality, particularly amongst elderly people. This article examines selected heat wave response plans at national, state/provincial, and municipal levels, with a particular focus on specific responses aimed at residents of aged care facilities. We sourced heat wave response plans from several countries that are experiencing a demographic transition that features a growing aging population. We collected a total of 23 heat wave response plans; most of the plans were from Australia, with only three plans each available from Canada and the UK, and only two available from the U.S. Key components found across the plans were analysis of temperature thresholds, heat stress prevention measures, and communication strategies. Only three heat wave response plans that we analyzed included specific guidance for aged care facilities. Projected increases in frequency and duration of heat waves in coming decades underline the need for governments to implement effective guidelines that include specific provisions for aged care facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2017