Since the catastrophic heatwave of 2003, which caused over 15,000 deaths in France — the vast majority of whom were elderly people — nursing homes (EHPADs) and retirement homes have been subject to increased protection obligations. Here is a comprehensive guide to effectively protect your residents and staff.
Why are elderly people particularly vulnerable?
The bodies of elderly people regulate temperature less effectively for several reasons:
- Decreased thirst sensation: seniors dehydrate without feeling it
- Reduced muscle mass: less capacity to store heat
- Medication: some treatments (diuretics, beta-blockers) impair thermoregulation
- Reduced mobility: inability to cool themselves down alone
The legal framework for nursing homes (EHPADs)
Since 2004, a national heatwave plan requires establishments caring for vulnerable individuals to:
- Have at least one air-conditioned room or cool area accessible 24/7
- Maintain a register of vulnerable residents
- Implement a written heatwave protocol
- Train staff on the signs of heatstroke
Practical measures by department
Individual rooms
The most effective and economical solution: a neck fan for each mobile resident, and a mini-desktop air conditioner in the rooms of the most fragile residents. The neck fan has the advantage of being portable, requires no installation, and can be used on the go (dining room, garden, hallways).
Common areas and resting rooms
Portable misters are excellent for hallways, dining rooms, and relaxation areas. Combined with good ventilation, they lower the perceived temperature by 5 to 8°C.
Care staff
Staff who are constantly moving benefit greatly from the neck fan. It frees up their hands, is silent, and reduces thermal fatigue during long working hours.
EHPAD heatwave checklist
- ✓ Cool room identified and accessible
- ✓ Written and distributed heatwave protocol
- ✓ Up-to-date register of vulnerable residents
- ✓ Staff training on the signs of heatstroke
- ✓ Hydration: water available 24/7, reminders every hour
- ✓ Cooling equipment distributed (fans, misters)
- ✓ Contact coordinating physician and ARS in case of alert
Group order for your facility
Best'n Deal offers nursing homes (EHPADs) and senior residences group orders with tiered pricing, pro invoice, and express delivery. For a facility with 80 residents and 30 staff members, an order of 50 neck fans costs €22.49 / unit, which is €1,124 including tax to cover the entire facility.
Request your free quote within 24 hours — no obligation.