High temperatures experienced in Andalusia during the summer especially affect the elderly, people with disabilities and in dependency situations. Therefore, the Andalusian Telecare Service (SAT) of the Ministry of Social Inclusion, Youth, Families, and Equality has managed a total of 128,962 communications to reinforce monitoring of its users during heat alerts. Thus, since this prevention campaign started in June, the staff provides recommendations in collaboration with the Andalusian Plan for the Prevention of the Effects of Excessive Temperatures on Health 2025.
Professionals have contacted a total of 13,044 users of the Telecare Service through phone calls and sent 115,918 text messages to mobile phones to convey various advice aimed at strengthening prevention efforts.
Throughout the summer, suggestions related to high temperatures will be offered to Telecare Service users, such as avoiding going out during peak sun hours and maintaining proper hydration.
The Andalusian Telecare Service, managed by the Andalusian Agency for Social Services and Dependency (ASSDA), provides continuous care 24 hours a day for individuals over 65 years old, people in dependency situations and with disabilities. The majority of users are individuals over 80 years old (with an average age of 82), considered a group more sensitive to excessive heat. Furthermore, a high percentage of them live alone, with some lacking contacts to turn to in case of emergencies. The combination of loneliness and advanced age makes them even more vulnerable to high temperatures.
For this reason, during days with orange or red heat alerts (information provided by the State Meteorological Agency), special monitoring is carried out for elderly individuals living alone in regions or municipalities experiencing high temperatures to reduce risks for populations more susceptible to heatstroke.
24 hours a day, 365 days a year
The Andalusian Telecare Service allows users to maintain verbal contact 24 hours a day, every day of the year, with just the press of a button. It is designed for the elderly, people in dependency situations, or with disabilities who require assistance, providing them with companionship, security, and rapid emergency response, as well as support for families, promoting work-life balance.
Currently, the Andalusian Telecare Service handles an average of 17,091 daily calls. Of these, 60% are outgoing calls, made by service professionals to monitor users, mobilize resources in emergencies, notify family or contacts, provide relevant information, remind of medical appointments, or update data to ensure quality, effective, and efficient service.
On the other hand, 40% are made by beneficiaries pressing the button on their device for telecare. A significant portion of these calls are for social interaction or conversation, highlighting the important role this service plays in alleviating loneliness and social isolation. Users also contact the Telecare Service in emergencies or for other health services requests, as well as to inquire about social benefits.
