Leaving elders in a hot car is extremely dangerous and a crime. Temperatures inside a parked car can soar in minutes. Seniors are vulnerable to heat-related death because their bodies cannot regulate temperature or sweat. They can decline quickly, and minutes can determine life or death.
This topic demands repeating! Why? News stories got my attention.
· Kentucky woman accused of leaving elderly man in hot car for refusing to buy her cigarettes.
· Police say van was 130 degrees with elders abandoned inside; caregiver sentenced.
· An investigation is underway after authorities say an elderly woman was left inside a parked bus in the heat in Bala Cynwyd.
· Nevada man left his mother in a diaper and a T-shirt in the car for 8 hours so he could go to work. Stated he was homeless and living in his car. (This is a larger population problem in society)
Even leaving a window down does little to prevent heat-related problems. The greatest tragedy of vehicular heat deaths is that they are preventable. The elderly should NOT be left in vehicles, and those with dementia or other cognitive issues must be protected from heat exposure.
Take -A-Ways
· Vehicle heat deaths are preventable.
· Locate family or friends to stay with a loved one at home.
· See something, say something! If you see an elder or any vulnerable person left in a hot car, windows down or not, call 911. In some cases, you may need to break a window to remove someone. This is always a judgment call, but your judgment could save a life.
For more information on hot-weather safety, the Eldercare Locator can assist you.
Eldercare Locator
800–677–1116
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, it is your responsibility to call 911 if you see someone in danger. Heatstroke deaths are entirely preventable, and caregivers must take the responsibility seriously. If you must leave an elder home alone, please find a trusted friend or family member to sit with your loved one while you run errands. It is elder abuse to leave elders in a hot car, unable to defend themselves. Never Do It! Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She is excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous work, From the Lens of a Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflects her experiences and insights from her heartfelt caregiving journey.