In the context of prolonged hot weather, air conditioners have become an indispensable device in many families. However, for the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and regulating body temperature, using air conditioners incorrectly can seriously harm health, especially cardiovascular and bone and joint health.
Dr. John Matthews, a geriatric expert at the University of California (USA), warned: The elderly are easily affected by sudden temperature changes. staying in a air conditioner for too long can cause blood vessels to constrict, causing a sudden increase in blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Not only the cardiovascular system, the skeletal system of the elderly is also easily affected. When room temperature is too low, muscles and joints are prone to stiffness, causing pain, especially in people with chronic bone and joint diseases such as arthritis or spinal degeneration.
Cold from air conditioners can aggravate joint pain symptoms and interfere with movement, Dr. Matthews emphasizes.
To protect the health of the elderly, experts recommend following some of the following principles:
1. Maintain room temperature at 2628°C: This temperature is suitable for the ability of the elderly to regulate body heat, both ensuring coolness and avoiding the risk of heatstroke.
2. Do not let the cold air blow directly to you: Especially while you are sleeping, you need to adjust the wind direction to the ceiling or use a wind island mode.
3. Do not turn off the air conditioner suddenly: Before leaving the room, turn off the air conditioner and open it for a few minutes to adapt to the outside temperature.
4. Maintain humidity from 5060%: You can use a humidifier or place a water pan in the room to avoid dry skin and dry respiratory tract.
5. Wear long clothes, cover your knees and elbows: Help keep sensitive areas warm.
According to Dr. John Matthews, many elderly people have the habit of saving electricity so they are overheated for too long, then turn on the air conditioner at deep cold to cool quickly. This is no less dangerous than staying in a cold apartment.
Using proper conditioning not only helps the elderly feel more comfortable in hot weather but is also an important part of long-term health care. families with elderly people need to pay special attention and adjust their air conditioning habits to be safe and effective.
