LEMON GROVE, Calif. — Many San Diego County residents are still feeling the heat. The National Institute on Aging says older adults are at higher risk of heat related illnesses, even death.
72-year-old Robin Dewing says he moves a little slow in the morning, but his mind is still sharp.
He received a visit from Senior Helpers Friday morning.
Amy Duell is with Senior Helpers East County. The group provides non-medical care to seniors throughout the year.
In the hot summer months, heat prevention is a top priority.
“Make sure that they’re drinking lots and lots of water. Encourage them to do that throughout the day. Also, other ways to keep your environment cool are to shut your blinds or your curtains and hot times of the day to try to keep the heat out,” said Duell.
The U.S. Army veteran is heading the advice.
“Get whatever you have to done outside early, and then you come in and you kind of like, hunker down for that really hot summer,” said Dewing
He keeps his lights off during the day, has a window AC unit, two fans and sunshade in the kitchen.
These check-ins help mental health too. Dewing shared how his neighbors come by to check on him.
Saying hello can brighten spirits for many seniors who feel isolated. Dewing encourages seniors to get to know their neighbors as well.
“They would at least come and check on you, and that check might mean the difference between life and death. So that’s really important,” said Dewing.
Dewing has a good support system. While CBS 8 visited with him, his breakfast buddy stopped by.
“We normally go to breakfast at 8 a.m. every Friday morning,” said John McFarland.
He met Dewing at church 15 years ago and says he checks on the senior a few times a day.
“It’s the right thing to do,” said McFarland. "I'm retired and I have time on my hands and I like spending time with him."
Dewing may think he moves a little slower, but his support system helps keep him moving.
“I am my own person and people need to remember just because you are a certain age don’t let that define you, it doesn’t mean you’re dead, keep moving,” said Dewing.
The County of San Diego County offers free cool zones.
They’ve extended the hours at the Borrego Springs library branch Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6 pm.
The County also has a cool zone fan program that offers free fans to eligible seniors and people with disabilities.
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