Cooling Gadgets Every Senior Should Try This Summer

Box fans and ice packs have a limited cooling range. But new technologies are providing a variety of helpful gadgets that are low cost, energy saving, and come with easy to read and use controls for seniors in retirement communities.

Add a few of these devices to your collection in retirement home Portland, and you can transform stifling afternoons into comfortable, productive time.

Evaporative air coolers add mist to a fan’s airflow, dropping ambient temperature by up to 10 degrees in arid regions. Wheeled models are easily moved from room to room, or to the patio, so you can enjoy the breeze while dining outdoors.Choose one with a digital display and large buttons that are easy to read.

Neck cooling scarves contain polymer crystals that draw in water and then release it gradually as they evaporate. Fill the scarf under running water for 5 minutes, blot off extra moisture, then wear it as a necktie. Cooling blood from the carotid arteries carries lower temperatures to the brain, which in turn cools the rest of the body. Scarves can be recharged by re-wetting, which makes them handy for gardening work.

USB powered fans are designed to draw only minimal electrical current and can be plugged into portable battery chargers, so you can stay cool even during blackouts. Select models with adjustable goosenecks to direct air flow to where you need it most, like across the cheeks while reading.

Battery powered personal misting fans project a fine spray of water in addition to moving air. They weigh less than 8 ounces and can be slipped in a purse or tote for a midday stroll. Add ice to the reservoir before you leave home for an extra chill.

Cooling mattress pads contain phase change material that absorbs body heat, then releases it slowly to your skin as it cools, maintaining a stable, cool surface. It’s a great way to lower sleep surface temperature, especially for seniors who experience medication induced night sweats.

Gel seat cushions come with covers that unzip for machine washing, so you can use them without guilt at the kitchen table or in the car. They are also great for long airplane rides. The gel evenly distributes weight to prevent soreness, and also acts as a thermal conductor, wicking heat from your body.

Smart thermostats have set-it-and-forget-it programs that adjust central air conditioning based on the outdoor temperature and patterns of where you are most likely to be in the house, keeping you comfortable and saving money on energy costs. They can be controlled with voice assistants to change the temperature without getting up from the recliner.

Mix and match these tips and gadgets to create a layered defense against hot summer days that help you enjoy outdoor activities with confidence in assisted living Portland.