DETROIT – Seniors are especially at risk during extreme heat, and homes without proper cooling can quickly become dangerous.
That’s why Vernest Spivey with the Detroit Area Agency on Aging is out in the heat, making sure seniors can stay cool in their homes by delivering bottled water and fans.
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One of those stops was at the city’s west-side home of Ms. Gloria Chandler, who has never had air conditioning. Chandler said the heat doesn’t bother her much.
“I just stay focused on being thankful that the Lord has blessed me to see another day,” Chandler said.
But she admits it can be a challenge to sleep at night during the heat.
“You just toss and turn if you need to; certainly no covers,” Chandler said.
Even though she doesn’t mind the heat, Chandler accepted a fan from the agency.
“They are such a blessing,” Chandler said.
On Spivey’s next stop, Ms. Allena Cross said she needed bottled water to stay hydrated during the hot stretch.
“I drink more water doing this time than I would normally,” Cross said.
Spivey said the work is about helping Detroit seniors and residents with disabilities stay safe during dangerous conditions.
“It’s about serving the community, what we can do to improve the quality of life for our seniors and disabled population,” Spivey said.
The Detroit Area Agency on Aging says it is also providing transportation to cooling centers in Detroit.
Fans and bottled water are available while supplies last.
You can follow DAAA on Facebook to stay up to date on its services and programming.