June 6, 2013

The Houston Department of Health and Human Services (HDHHS) will distribute 100 portable air conditioners to Houston-area needy seniors.  Reliant Energy made the program possible with a $20,000 donation to purchase the air conditioners.

Seniors in Houston and Harris County who do not have an air conditioner can apply for an air conditioner by calling HDHHS’ Area Agency on Aging at 832-393-4301.

The elderly are particularly vulnerable to the heat.  It takes seniors nearly twice the time of younger people to return to core body temperature after exposure to extreme outdoor temperatures.

HDHHS recommends that adults check on elderly relatives, friends or neighbors for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Others who are particularly vulnerable include infants and children up to four years of age, those who are overweight and people with heart and respiratory problems.