Keeping cool in aged care: adapting to climate change

As global temperatures rise, aged care facilities face an increasingly critical challenge: maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for residents. Older people, who can be particularly sensitive to heat, require consistent cool indoor climates to safeguard their health, writes ATESH MANI, National Product Manager, Mitsubishi Electric Australia.

At the same time, the need for sustainable cooling solutions has never been more urgent. The HVAC industry has made significant advancements in technology and innovation in this space and is now working to address these dual challenges, ensuring both reliability and environmental responsibility in aged care settings.

Health risks of high temperatures

The health risks associated with high temperatures are well documented. Older adults are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration, which can exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions and significantly impact their health and wellbeing. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular strain and respiratory issues. Therefore, effective climate control is not just a luxury but a necessity in aged care facilities, where maintaining a stable and comfortable environment is vital for residents’ health and safety.

Advancements in HVAC technology

In the face of rising temperatures, traditional cooling systems alone are not enough. Facilities must adopt solutions that not only ensure optimal cooling but also align with sustainable practices. Innovative air conditioning systems are engineered to deliver precise temperature control, ensuring that aged care facilities can maintain a consistent, cool environment even as external temperatures soar. These systems leverage the latest technologies to adapt to fluctuating conditions, providing reliable cooling with minimal energy consumption.

Beyond mere cooling, these systems are designed with energy efficiency in mind. This focus on sustainability helps aged care facilities reduce their carbon footprint while also lowering operational costs. By incorporating state-of-the-art technologies such as variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and advanced heat recovery units, facilities can achieve their dual mission: protecting vulnerable residents and contributing to environmental stewardship.

Maintaining indoor air quality

Indoor air quality is another critical aspect of climate control in aged care settings. Poor indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, exacerbating respiratory issues and overall health problems. High-quality air filtration systems are essential for maintaining a healthy living environment, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. Advanced air purification technologies, including HEPA filters and air ionisers, are increasingly being integrated into climate control systems to enhance indoor air quality and ensure that residents breathe clean, fresh air at all times.

A holistic approach

Modern HVAC solutions not only provide immediate benefits in terms of cooling and air quality, but also support long-term sustainability goals. This holistic approach is crucial as facilities strive to balance the urgent need for reliable climate control with their responsibility to protect the environment. By embracing both technological advancements and eco-friendly practices, the industry exemplifies how we can address these challenges effectively.

In summary, the intersection of global warming, health and sustainability underscores the importance of advanced and responsible cooling solutions in aged care facilities. The industry’s innovative technologies demonstrate how we can meet these challenges head-on, ensuring a safe, comfortable and environmentally friendly future for older people.

Atesh Mani is the National Product Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Australia.

Image credit: iStock.com/lamyai