Yangju City Strengthens 'Health Management Visit Service for Vulnerable Groups' in Preparation for Cold Wave

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, this winter is expected to experience strong cold waves and abnormal high temperatures due to the influence of the cold Siberian high pressure and mobile high pressure, resulting in greater temperature fluctuations than usual. In particular, special caution is required for seniors aged 65 and over and those with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, as prolonged exposure to cold can increase the risk of cold-related illnesses and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Exterior view of Yangju City Public Health Center. Provided by Yangju City

Yangju City (Mayor Kang Su-hyun) announced on the 22nd that it will strengthen 'health management education and home health care services' targeting vulnerable groups such as elderly living alone to prepare for the winter cold waves until March next year.

The city plans to focus on health monitoring by checking in via phone or direct visits during cold wave periods for about 1,600 households living in vulnerable environments such as containers, who are the target of home health care visits.

In addition, for elderly living alone and users of cold wave shelters at village senior centers, the city will provide guidance on health management rules to prepare for cold waves, including △ light indoor exercise △ adequate hydration and balanced nutrition △ maintaining indoor temperature at 18℃ to 20℃ △ refraining from outdoor activities △ wearing cold protection gear (thermal underwear, extra socks, scarves, masks) when going outside △ preventing falls on icy roads, as well as conducting basic health checks and providing cold protection items (thermal vests, moisturizers).

A Yangju City official stated, “We will do our best to actively promote the operation of cold wave shelters, provide intensive health management services for cold wave preparedness, and promote preventive measures so that vulnerable groups can safely get through the winter.”