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Cooling subsidies needed to protect elderly in heat
11 January 2010.
AMA Victoria today called on the Brumby Government to protect the elderly against heat-related illness and death by subsidising the cost of cooling aids such as air conditioners for Victorians aged over 75.
The $37 million proposal would see air conditioners installed free in public housing dwellings where tenants were aged over 75, and means-tested rebates of $1,000 issued to Victorians in the same age group for air conditioners or other heat-protecting measures.
"Older Victorians are particularly at risk of harm from today’s extreme heat,” said AMA Victoria President Dr Harry Hemley. "And I’m sure this won’t be the first heat wave this year.
"The heat can cause a number of health-related conditions, from mild rashes or cramps to severe heat stroke which can kill. Heat can also exacerbate existing conditions such as heart disease.
"During the heatwave in January 2009, an additional 374 people died than would usually be expected. Many of these deaths were older Victorians, and many were due to heat-related conditions."
Dr Hemley said problems occurred when the body was unable to adequately cool itself. “For older Victorians with chronic health conditions, the use of an air conditioner during a heat wave just might save their life."
Dr Hemley said the Victorian Government’s heatwave plan, released in December, had some good first steps to check-up on elderly residents in public housing but did not go far enough to prevent illness.
"The heatwave plan tells us to have our air conditioner serviced in preparation for a heat wave, but what about those who cannot afford an air conditioner or live in public housing?
"The Victorian Government has a responsibility to ensure that older Victorians are protected from extremes in heat."
The proposed $37 million spend on air conditioners and subsidies for other heat-protecting measures such as block-out blinds would deliver savings for the health system when fewer patients presented to emergency departments, Dr Hemley said.
The number of elderly patients presenting to emergency departments during last January’s heat wave was 37% higher than usual.
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