Special heat tips: How to protect our seniors nursing homes!

Special heat tips: How to protect our seniors nursing homes!

Mölbis, Deutschland - The persistent heat waves are an increasing challenge for care facilities, especially for older people who often need special protection. According to the forecasts of future climate models, the number of hot days will increase in the next few years, which could further tighten the Situation in nursing homes. Older people are particularly affected because they are often unable to deal with extreme temperatures, which increases the risk of health problems. [lvz.de] (https://www.lvz.de/lokales/leipzig-wieoren-in-pflegeheimen-mit-hitze- and-solungen-wurz7ccccccyfmdxgcjr6w5qii.html) reports that care facilities are already developing strategies for the security and well-being of their residents ensure.

The 104-year-old Lucia Littmann illuminates everyday life in the nursing home with memories of previous summer work in the field. It refers to the valuable tips from her home country, such as the morning and afternoon work at hot temperatures, while clothing consisted of breathable materials such as cotton and linen. Marlies Kosbab, 89 years old, recommends creating supplies so that you don't have to spend too much time outdoors. The Johann-Hinrich-Wichern-Heim has already taken measures to remind the residents of drinking and reduce the activities on hot days.

measures and recommendations

In order to meet the challenges of climate change, various suggestions for improving heat protection in care facilities were developed. On the menu in the homes of the diakonia there is often a light food like potatoes with curd cheese and cucumbers to support the residents in diet. Other aspects of the heat protection measures include the use of green roofs, blinds, fans and air -conditioned areas. The Matthias Claudius nursing home in Plagwitz has developed a comprehensive climate adaptation concept, which is promoted by 90 % by the federal government. This concept includes roof gardens, outdoor blinds and modern heating, which can also be used for cooling.

On May 24, 2024, the Nursing Quality Committee, initiated by the Federal Ministry of Health, published a nationwide uniform recommendation for the creation and implementation of heat protection plans in care facilities. This recommendation is aimed at fully inpatient care institutions, outpatient services as well as short and day care facilities in order to look at the aspects of heat protection holistically. The aim is to improve both the sensitization of the staff and communication with relatives in order to ensure adequate care for those in need of care on hot days. Dr. Heidi Oschmiansky from the German Red Cross and Jörg Schemann from the GKV Spitzenverband discussed the content of the recommendation in a digital practical dialog in June 2025.

activities and time -outs

The Johann-Hinrich-Wichern-Heim also plans a forest week for the residents in Mölbis near Rötha in August. This activity should enable the seniors to spend their time in nature, where they can enjoy cool places and foot baths. Such measures are an example of how care facilities find creative solutions in order to minimize the stress through high temperatures and to improve the quality of life of their residents.

The increasing temperatures require a proactive adaptation of the care facilities to the climatic changes. The implemented heat protection measures and the proven recommendations from nursing practice are crucial to protect older people and to enable them a successful, safe life even during the hot months.