Heat wave has seniors homes on alert

Some Montreal seniors homes are on alert for expected high temperatures over the next couple days.

The mercury is forecast to top out at 32 C on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to Environment Canada, with the humidity making it feel like 38.

Eileen Katz, executive director of the B'nai Brith House in Cote St. Luc, said seniors living independently are often less likely to feel the need to stay hydrated — which poses a risk for them during a heat wave.

"They have a different kind of thermometer in their bodies than we do. Whereas someone younger might be really hot and go and take an extra drink, someone older might not be hot," Katz said.

"They're quite comfortable without air conditioning, a lot of them, and so they might not remember, not realize that they're being dehydrated."

Katz said her facility will remind its 105 residents to drink lots, and will likely invite them for an afternoon iced tea in an air-conditioned area, since not all people have their own AC.

Efraim Ben-Eli at the Beth Reim Kosher Seniors Residence said he and his staff are also making sure their residents stay hydrated.