How Nursing Homes Can Safeguard Vulnerable Residents During Summer

The increasing occurrence of heatwaves in the UK is putting some of our society’s most vulnerable people at greater risk of health issues and life-threatening illnesses. The elderly are often particularly heat-sensitive and failing to keep optimal climate conditions in nursing homes can have devastating consequences.

As our changing climate brings rising temperatures and reduced air quality through summer, it’s important we act now to protect those most at risk.

The Dangers of Extreme Weather for Elderly People

Long spells of exceptionally hot weather can be uncomfortable and challenging for everyone, but for the elderly, they can be life-threatening.

Our bodies become less effective at regulating our core temperature as we get older, and extreme heat also worsens common health problems among the elderly, such as heart, lung and kidney disease. Additionally, common prescription medications can sometimes affect the body’s normal response to heat, such as reducing the ability to sweat, for example.

Some of the most vulnerable patients may struggle in communicating their needs or problems, making it even more important for staff to anticipate problems and act accordingly. Dehydration, heat stroke, and exhaustion can become very real risks.

What are the Challenges in Dealing with Heatwaves in Nursing Homes?

There is no margin for error when it comes to protecting the elderly during spells of extreme weather, but sometimes adapting to rising temperatures is easier said than done. In some cases, effective climate control during hot weather is extremely difficult to achieve.

This can be due to:

• Unsuitable building layout or design, such as windows, roof shape, garden landscaping or building materials
• Insufficient funds to invest in efficient Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) solutions
• Lack of staff training on how to protect patients during extreme weather
• Complex needs of patients and insufficient resources to cope

Temporary Hire Solutions to Climate Control Challenges in Nursing Homes

Adapting a care facility to face the increasing threat of heatwaves does not have to mean a complete overhaul of equipment and processes. Instead, short-term or long-term hire solutions can be used to ensure a cool, comfortable climate for nursing home patients as summer temperatures soar.

Air conditioning

Effective air conditioning plays a huge role in ensuring the comfort and well-being of patients in bedrooms and common areas. At Andrews Air Conditioning, our air conditioning hire units come HEPA-filtered as standard to purify the air and create a cleaner, more comfortable environment while also delivering on energy efficiency.

Chillers

Precise temperature control is essential in a nursing home environment. Short-term or long-term chiller rentals, underpinned by 24/7 backup service and reliable technical support, can help you through the summer months without committing to large costs or lengthy contacts.

Ventilation

Efficient ventilation is important in a sensitive environment where challenges such as infection control and heat stress pose a greater risk. With our temporary ventilation hire solutions, you can enjoy a constant supply of clean, fresh air when and where you need it most.

Why Choose Andrews Air Conditioning for Your Climate Control Needs?

As part of the nation’s most established specialist hire company, Andrews Air Conditioning knows dealing with hot weather conditions requires strategic planning and innovative cooling equipment.

With decades of experience and a vast product range across air conditioning hire, chiller hire and ventilation hire solutions we are extremely well-practiced in assisting clients with planned and emergency cooling requirements.

We understand that effective climate control is a key part of your overall responsibilities, which is why we act quicker than any of our competitors to appease demand.

• Our vast array of cooling and ventilation equipment is available for immediate delivery from branches across the UK, installed and supported by our highly trained teams.
• We are equipped to deliver at the shortest notice, usually within 4 hours of your call, and you can call us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• You’ll always be answered by one of our dedicated and knowledgeable team members, not by a machine.

Case study: Cancer Screening Stays on Track Thanks to Hired Cooling Solution

Andrews Air Conditioning was the first port of call for a teaching medical centre in Yorkshire when three dedicated breast cancer screening units were overheating due to constant usage. We deployed three PAC22 split type air conditioning units to ensure this vital service could continue.

Find out more here.

Get Heatwave Ready with Temporary Air Conditioning, Chillers and Ventilation Solutions

Extreme weather is an increasingly common feature of summer in the UK so it’s important to anticipate the challenges they bring. Air conditioning, cooling and ventilation systems are the perfect solution for nursing homes to maintain optimal temperatures, improve airflow and ensure comfort for all.

To discover exactly how we can help call now on 0800 211 611 or enquire online.