How to protect your at-risk loved ones during the deadly heat

Since July 7, the deadly heat has taken six lives in Riverside County. Just last week, one of the most recent deaths; an 84-year old Indio resident. When the mercury starts to climb, you may know where to go and what to do, but for large segments of the population, extra precaution is necessary.

“People with Alzheimer’s, with dementia…with issues being able to get up and go to the bathroom and get a drink of water…or go to the kitchen and get a drink of water.” said Dr. Andrew Kassinove, medical director at JFK Medical Center’s Emergency Department. People without air conditioning…We really need to be careful for those people as well.”

Here’s the complete list of Riverside County cooling centers

Every day, medical professional across the valley treat patients for heat-related illnesses, and many of them may not even know that they are at risk. According to doctors, most medications inhibit the body from properly regulating heat.

“As we know, the population out here in the valley is on a lot of medications,” said Dr. Kassinove.

For any people finding it challenging to stay cool or hydrated this summer, Joslyn Senior Center is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. In addition to being an official cooling center, with food, water and air conditioning, they also have over 50 planned social activities per week.

“The staff is very attune to people that are dehydrated and signs of disorientation and heat-related illnesses,” said Program Director Daniel Coover.

And from indoor games to free movies to ukulele lessons — there’s something for everyone to help beat the heat.

“I think the sociability is very important…we need people…I’ve always needed people,” said Rose Lewis, a visitor to Joslyn Senior Center. “When I leave my place, I just turn off the A.C. completely…I feel like I’m at home here,” said Darius Tashnizi, another visitor to the center.

The staff at the center says they are committed to offering a safe, cool place for everyone. While it acts as a cooling center during the summer, Joslyn Senior Center is open year round.

“A lot of times people have said, ‘You saved my life by re-engaging me by taking me from a dark place in my life,'” said Coover.