Fans and Heaters Protect Seniors from Temperature-related Illnesses

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian’s (DAAS-PG) collaborated with the Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) to initiate and implement a Fans and Heaters program that mitigates health risks to Adult Protective Services (APS) clients due to extreme temperatures. The San Bernardino County APS program, administered by DAAS-PG, provides services to vulnerable seniors and dependent adults. The population served includes the elderly and dependent adults with medical issues which can require temperature stability and control. San Bernardino County is subject to extreme temperatures throughout the year, putting this population at risk of health complications resulting in hospitalization and, in some cases, loss of life. The Fans and Heaters program provides fans and heaters through the APS program directly to clients at risk while assessing for additional needs to not only prevent the impact of extreme temperatures to client’s health but also maintain client independence and prioritize self direction.