Due to Frequent Heatwave Warnings... Pyeongtaek City Takes Action to Care for the Health of Elderly Living Alone

Health Center Staff Check-in Calls and Visits
Guidance Using AI Speakers

Amid forecasts of frequent heatwaves this summer, Pyeongtaek City in Gyeonggi Province has taken steps to care for the health of elderly people living alone during the summer.

Pyeongtaek City is strengthening the "Heatwave Response Visiting Health Management System" for vulnerable groups in preparation for the expected rise in average temperatures and the increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves this summer.

A "Heatwave Advisory" is issued when temperatures of 33 degrees Celsius or higher persist for two days, and a "Heatwave Warning" is issued when daily maximum temperatures of 35 degrees Celsius or higher persist for two days. These conditions can cause heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and heat cramps, and in particular, elderly people may even face fatal outcomes.

Accordingly, from this month until September 30, the Pyeongtaek and Songtan Public Health Centers will have all staff members each take charge of five elderly people living alone, making weekly phone calls or visits to 2,779 registered elderly individuals under the visiting health management program.

In addition, 400 artificial intelligence (AI) speakers are being used to send health guideline messages and provide designated guardian and emergency center call services in case of emergencies. The city is also distributing 1,600 sun umbrellas and 840 heatwave response kits (including fans, handkerchiefs, water bottles, and Beomulli insect repellent), along with informational materials on heatwave prevention guidelines and behavioral instructions. The health centers plan to distribute 2,500 mosquito repellents to help prevent mosquito bites during the summer.

Furthermore, 19 professional visiting nurses are conducting home visits to check blood pressure and blood sugar levels of the elderly, provide dementia and mental health counseling, distribute "Heatwave Prevention Health Guidelines" at local senior centers, and check the operation of cooling devices.

A representative from the Pyeongtaek Public Health Center stated, "As summer temperatures worsen every year, we will do our best to ensure a healthy summer for elderly people living alone and other vulnerable groups with limited mobility by providing greater attention and emotional support."