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New Weather Alert System: A Lifeline for Seniors?

From scorching heat waves in the Southwest to unprecedented flooding in the Northeast, Americans are facing weather extremes like never before.

These drastic shifts aren’t just inconveniences—they’re potential health hazards, especially for the senior population.

Sweltering temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and stroke. Sudden cold snaps might trigger heart attacks. Even changes in air pressure from storms can affect those with respiratory conditions. For older adults, these weather-related health risks are particularly severe.

But there’s hope on the horizon—CVS Health has unveiled a groundbreaking weather alert system designed to help protect vulnerable seniors from these invisible threats.

The alert system, which combines highly localized weather forecasts with individual health data, is set to revolutionize how we protect our most vulnerable citizens from the silent killer of extreme heat.

Dr. Dan Knecht, vice president and chief clinical innovation officer for CVS Caremark, explains the urgency behind this initiative: “Most heat-related deaths are preventable with proper outreach and intervention. This system allows us to identify those at highest risk and provide targeted support before a crisis occurs.”

Here’s how it works:

The system uses environmental data analytics to predict extreme weather events in specific locations.

It then cross-references this information with medical and pharmacy data to identify high-risk patients in affected areas.

Registered nurse care managers reach out to these vulnerable individuals days in advance of an extreme weather event.

Patients receive personalized tips, resources, and guidance on managing their medications during periods of extreme heat.

For seniors, this could be a game-changer. See, as we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature, making us more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Add in certain medications that can impair heat tolerance, and the risk skyrockets.

Dr. MeiLan K. Han, a pulmonologist and professor at the University of Michigan, emphasizes the particular vulnerability of those with chronic lung conditions. “Increasing dust, hotter temperatures, and higher levels of air pollution make it more difficult for patients to breathe,” she explains. “This alert system could give patients crucial time to prepare.”

The initiative is currently available to Aetna Medicare members, with plans to expand to other CVS Health customers in the future. It’s not just about alerts, either. The system directs patients to valuable resources like:

  • Oak Street Health clinics that can serve as cooling centers
  • Health services at MinuteClinic locations
  • Medication management support at CVS pharmacies
  • Virtual or in-person mental health counseling

While the initial focus is on extreme heat, the company plans to expand the system this fall to include alerts about high levels of air pollution, which can be particularly dangerous for those with asthma, reduced lung function, or cardiac problems.

However, experts like Dr. Han caution that, while this system is a significant step forward, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. “Programs for weather-related health alerts will need to be comprehensive,” she says, pointing out that some vulnerable seniors may have air conditioning but can’t afford to run it.

By combining cutting-edge technology with personalized healthcare, we’re better equipped than ever to protect our seniors from the invisible threats posed by extreme weather.

While we await the wider rollout of this technology, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:

  • Create a weather emergency plan with your doctor, tailored to your specific health needs.
  • Keep a list of your medications and how they might be affected by extreme temperatures.
  • Invest in a reliable indoor thermometer and know your safe temperature range.
  • Have a “cooling kit” ready with items like cold packs and loose, light clothing.
  • Stay connected with family or neighbors who can check on you during extreme weather events.
  • If you use medical devices, have a backup power source in case of outages.
  • Learn the early warning signs of heat-related illness and when to seek medical help.

Remember, your health and safety come first. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when weather conditions become challenging.

To your health and safety,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Could this common mistake be blunting your brain? (Warm weather alert!)

Source:

Splete, H. (2024, August 19). Alert System Could Warn of Impact of Severe Weather on Health. Medscape; Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/alert-system-could-warn-impact-severe-weather-health-2024a1000f6c

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