In preparation for the extreme heat event expected to begin Tuesday June 30^th and run through the July 4^th holiday weekend, that will bring temperatures into the high-90’s and possibly even above 100 degrees Fahrenheit to some regions, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) is sharing resources including ways organizations and individuals can help protect older adults through extreme-heat-related actions.

Examples of extreme-heat-related actions include:

• standing up or directing consumers to cooling centers (call 2-2-1 to find cooling centers).  Organizations involved in standing up cooling centers may find useful tips on Mass DPH’s Cooling Centers Guidance webpage,
• educating providers and consumers on how to recognize and treat the 3 types of heat related illness,
• providing information on what to do if there is a power outage,
• sharing tips on how to stay cool,
• making twice-daily checks on consumers for signs of heat-related illness, as recommended by the CDC, and distributing a caregiver checklist to those checking on older adults.

Additional information may be found at AGE’s website regarding extreme heat and older adults: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/preparing-for-extreme-heat, along with 3 downloadable flyers, now also available in Spanish which agencies are welcome to link to and/or or print and distribute (attached and linked below):

• Flyer 1: Heat Related Illness Symptoms / Caregiver Checklist.
  • Flyer 1: Spanish Version
• Flyer 2: Extreme Heat Preparation Checklist / Assistance For Air Conditioning Costs
  • Flyer 2: Spanish Version
• Flyer 3: Tips To Stay Cool on Hot Days
  • Flyer 3: Spanish Version