“Heat Telephone Parasol”

Key Learnings

• Informing and preventing: As warming temperatures especially threaten vulnerable groups like the elderly, the heat telephone was introduced as an information tool for prevention.
• Simple and effective: A simple telephone call can make a difference. Providing brief information about heat warnings has proven effective in reaching the vulnerable group. By making personal contact, other needs and worries are often revealed. The elderly highly value the personal aspect.
• Volunteering: This initiative relies on personal commitment and voluntary work of the people calling the elderly. Without the volunteers, this initiative would not be financially viable. The commitment of the same volunteers each year contributes to the success of the Heat telephone and leads a relationship of trust.

Summary

In 2010, the service of a heat telephone was introduced in Kassel to warn vulnerable groups about dangerous heat wavesand related health risks. To date, the initiative has been a success, and the city plans to expand the offer. The service is provided during the two hottest summer months and is a collaboration between the regional health department of Kassel and the Seniors’ Advisory Board. Phone calls from volunteers not only prevent the elderly from serious health issues but also address a social aspect.

Contact

gesundheitsfoerderungkassel [dot] de (gesundheitsfoerderung[at]kassel[dot]de)

julia [dot] kretschmerkassel [dot] de (julia[dot]kretschmer[at]kassel[dot]de)