HOPE E-COURSE FORMAL CAREGIVERS -ND

 Welcome to the first week of the third module of this e-learning.

 This third module focuses on interventions on the individual level: interventions on how to treat as well as to prevent complications from heat waves. 

 The goals of this module are:

1: The student appoints the different types of prevention.
2: The student explains the possible interventions to reduce the effects of extreme heat on health on micro level 
3: The student explains the possible interventions to prevent the effects of extreme heat on health on micro level 
4: The student can apply an intervention (mix) on a specific individual case 
5: The student substantiates the different possible interventions 

This week’s work:

 1.     Before getting deeper into prevention and possible interventions, we will start off with the casus of Mrs. Anderson (See the Map ‘Cases’). Please read it, and answer the next questions:

 What would your advice be? Plus: what can she do for herself, and what can others do? 

Finally, which interventions would you consider preventive, and which more curative?

 2.     Then, please check this video clip (W1-V1), and learn about several practical interventions you can undertake during heatwaves. Is there anything you think that could be useful for Mrs. Anderson?

 3.     Now, please read some scientific papers on this topic. Please start with this one: W1-A1. 

Understanding this article is pivotal for this Module as well as the whole e-learning. Take your time for it, and if necessary, read it a second time. Write down, for yourself, what you think is most the important lesson from this article. Be sure to remember which interventions on a micro level are effective, and which are not.

Then, read W1-A2, to understand what is known about the use of electric fans. This is important because there are many misunderstandings about their usefulness.

 After having read these papers, please answer these questions for yourself:

-        About electric fans: is it good advice to use them always in times of extreme heat? Explain.

-        About air conditioning: is it good advice to use them always in times of extreme heat? Explain.

-        About wearing white clothes: is it good advice to wear these clothes always in times of extreme heat? Explain.

  Knowledge Check

To check whether or not you have understood most of the material: please read again the case of Mrs. Anderson. 

First, write down your assessment (‘What are the main –potential – problems in this case?’) and after that, please 

make an intervention plan: what will your action be?

 To help students with their knowledge check, there is an example of possible answers given below. This should not immediately be given to them, but after they have written/uploaded their answers.

Your assessment fe:

1.     Home Environment: The house may lack proper ventilation, air conditioning, or effective cooling solutions.

2.     Mobility Challenges: Mrs. Anderson's osteoarthritis may limit her ability to make necessary adjustments to improve the indoor climate.

3.     Medical Conditions: The high temperature may exacerbate her hypertension, posing potential health risks.

Your Intervention Plan fe:

1.     Assess the Home Environment:

•  Evaluate the existing cooling systems (if any) and their effectiveness.
•  Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent heat from entering.
•  Explore the possibility of installing affordable cooling solutions such as fans or portable air conditioning units.

2.     Provide Education:

•    Educate Mrs Anderson on the importance of staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
•    Advise her on appropriate clothing choices for hot weather.
•    Emphasize the significance of maintaining a cool environment for overall well-being, especially considering her medical history.

3.     Mobility Assistance:

•    Collaborate with neighbours or family members to assist Mrs. Anderson in making necessary adjustments in her home.
•    Explore community services that can provide support in improving home conditions for seniors.

4.     Medical Consultation:

•    Recommend a medical check-up to assess the impact of the high temperature on Mrs. Anderson's hypertension and heart failure.
•    Discuss potential adjustments to her medication if needed.

5.     Community Resources:

•    Connect Mrs. Anderson with local community services that assist older individuals during extreme weather conditions.
•    Explore programs that offer support with home modifications for seniors.