The Cyprus Union of Pensioners (EKYSY) has called on the government to take immediate measures to protect the elderly during the prolonged heatwave conditions affecting the island.
The organisation warned that persistently high temperatures significantly increase the risk of heatstroke and other serious health complications for elderly people.
Advice for older people
EKYSY urged older residents to avoid unnecessary travel and exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. It also advised them to remain in cool or air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
Calls for electricity subsidies
The organisation called on the government to introduce an immediate subsidy for electricity costs during the summer months so that no elderly person is forced to go without air conditioning because of financial hardship.
EKYSY also urged the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare to step up inspections of residential care homes for older people.
At the same time, it called on municipalities and community councils to make air-conditioned public spaces available to accommodate elderly residents and other vulnerable groups during periods of extreme heat.
Protecting vulnerable people
Concluding its statement, EKYSY stressed that protecting the health and lives of older people is a shared responsibility.
It said immediate action is needed to safeguard the safety, health and dignity of elderly citizens during the current heatwave.
Also read: Electricity demand hits all-time record in Cyprus
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