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Soaring temperatures pose risk to senior citizens

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Soaring temperatures are posing a health risk to Michigan’s seniors.

 

Temperatures are expected to climb into the 90’s again this weekend.

 

The Michigan Agency for Energy says many seniors struggle to afford air conditioning. Some seniors may also be on medication that affects their physical response to heat.

 

Nick Assendelft is a spokesperson with the MAE. He said it’s important seniors stay aware of community resources.

 

“Talk to friends or neighbors-maybe they can take you to the mall or cooling centers. There are cooling centers around as well. There are also ways that they can get out of the heat and stay in the cool at least during the hottest parts of the day”

 

Assendelft said utility groups often provide programs to lower-income households or seniors. He also suggests neighbors regularly check-in or offer assistance to seniors on particularly hot days.