Governor Quinn announces state efforts to address seniors' health during warm summer months

Urges Illinoisans to take precautions, check on elderly

[August 12, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD –  As temperatures rise, Governor Pat Quinn has announced services available to protect people from excessive summer heat, and asked people across Illinois to look out for those most vulnerable to the high temperatures, including the elderly and children during the upcoming summer months.

“We must all be aware of the health risks that accompany rising temperatures, as well as the resources that are available to assist everyone in Illinois. The state is here to help people stay cool-- providing cooling centers in more than 120 locations.” said Governor Quinn. “We must all do what we can to ensure people are safe and healthy, especially by checking on elderly friends, neighbors, and relatives.

To combat high temperatures, the state is providing services to help ensure the health and safety of the public.

The Illinois Department of Human Services has established cooling centers and more than 120 state facilities, to help those without air conditioning escape the heat. The cooling centers are located at Illinois Department of Human Services offices throughout the state, as well as the seven Illinois Tollway Oases in the Chicago area. They are open to the public during regular business hours. For more information about Cooling Centers call (800) 843- 6154. For a list of participating centers and oases, visit the website at . www.keepcool.illinois.gov

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) encourages people across Illinois to take steps to protect against heat-related health problems. To stay cool, IDPH recommends increasing fluid intake, avoiding caffeine, alcohol and sugar, decreasing activities, wearing appropriate clothing and, remaining in an air conditioned environment whenever possible. For more information on summer activity safety and summer health risks, visit the website at http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/books/summtoc.htm to find the “Summer? No Sweat” Survival Guide.

The Illinois Department on Aging encourages relatives and friends to make daily visits or calls to senior citizens living alone. When temperatures and humidity are extremely high, seniors and people with chronic health conditions must be watchful for dehydration and other effects of extreme heat. Additionally, seniors should eat lighter meals, take longer and more frequent rests, and drink plenty of fluids.

For information about preparedness, visit the Ready Illinois website at www.Ready.Illinois.gov .

Archived columns