BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Dangerous heat is a serious concern for seniors, especially those without air conditioning at home.
Volunteers with United Way Meals help deliver meals to homebound seniors and those with disabilities in local communities. During summer, they also make sure residents have access to cold water and shelter.
Cliff Mansfield has been knocking on doors for Meals on Wheels for a little over a year. The 87-year-old says it’s about more than just dropping off a nutritious meal.
“I don’t believe some of these people would have any human contact if it weren’t for [our] volunteers," Mansfield said.
Mary Wright says that knock on the door is important, as it's an action that can save someone's life.
“Some people pass away because no one checks on them,” she said. “Some people don’t have family, Some people have outlived all their friends, and some people don’t have anybody but you all to come and check with.”
Meals on Wheels clients are assigned a case worker, who can help their clients stay cool if need be.
“We can also follow up with their emergency contacts as well just to make sure they have access to the assistance they need,” Candace O’Neil with United Way of Central Alabama said. “We’ve been able to get seniors different fans we’ve been able to get them utility assistance as well.”
CBS 42 also spoke with first responders for tips on staying cool. EMT Walter Harris says they use cold packs to put under the armpits of those suffering from heat-related illnesses.
Homewood Fire Department Battalion Chief Mark Shannon says it's hard for the body to regulate its temperature during the heat, especially for older adults.
“A lot of your elderly people are already on medication, and a lot of medications are diuretics so they don’t have as much sweat as the younger people do,” Shannon said.
For information on becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer, click here.