Delhi Winter: Old age homes take steps to protect residents as mercury drops

As Delhi experiences cold wave conditions, old age homes across the city have implemented measures to ensure the safety and comfort of their elderly residents.

These measures include providing a nutritious diet, daily exposure to sunlight, thermal blankets, and insulated flooring to protect residents from cold-related illnesses like hypothermia.

Rajeshwari Mishra, a founding member of Sai Sahara Old Age Home, emphasized the vulnerability of individuals aged 60 to 90 to conditions such as hypothermia and respiratory issues, stressing the importance of keeping them warm and comfortable. Residents are encouraged to spend time in the sun daily to boost their Vitamin D levels, Mishra said.

“We have removed certain cold foods like curd from the menu and introduced chyawanprash and seasonal foods to their diet,” she added.

Also Read: AIIMS patients’ attendants suffer smog, freezing cold

Geeta Basin, a caretaker at Nirmal Chhaya Old Age Home, shared that their facility, located on a farmhouse with 30 rooms and housing 18 residents aged 68 to 90, allows residents to enjoy extended sun exposure during the day. “After sunset, residents move indoors, where they have heaters, warm food, and regular exercise. We are taking meticulous care of their needs,” she said.

Delhi recorded its lowest minimum temperature of the season at 4.5 degrees Celsius on December 12 and again on December 15. On Monday, the city reported the same low temperature.

At We Care Old Age Home, a coordinator explained that ample sunlight has reduced the need for heaters, which are only used when absolutely necessary as they can cause discomfort or suffocation for some. Other measures include providing thermal blankets, insulated flooring, and warm beverages.

“We are monitoring residents closely for any signs of cold stress and ensuring immediate medical attention when needed. Additionally, we are scheduling group activities during the daytime in sunlit areas,” the coordinator added.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold wave conditions were observed in Delhi, with temperatures dropping to 3.5 degrees Celsius in Pusa and 4.1 degrees Celsius in Ayanagar.

(With inputs from PTI)