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S.C. (WCSC) — The South Carolina Department of Public Health is monitoring an assisted living facility in Mount Pleasant following reports of malfunctioning HVAC units, and family members of residents are calling for a more permanent solution to what they say is a repeated problem
The Palms at Mount Pleasant, located on Bowman Road, has had two unannounced inspections in the past two months. Records from a June 11 inspection show room temperatures ranging from 72 to 78 degrees, within regulations. A July 8 inspection recorded room temperatures reaching as high as 86 degrees
Jon and Laurie Kinsey, who live in Kansas, have a 98-year-old relative residing at the facility. They said they felt powerless as the situation unfolded
“We felt kind of helpless here,” the Kinseys said
The couple said this is not the first time they have experienced issues with the facility’s HVAC system. Even with a temporary fix in place for their loved one, they said they remain concerned about other residents
“It’s too, too hot for old people…we’re just trying to look out for everybody there because they’re all paying rate that would get those services,” they said
Dr. Lauren Brady, an HCA Healthcare emergency room physician, said overheating occurs frequently across the Lowcountry due to high temperatures and humidity. She said the risks are heightened for elderly individuals with underlying health conditions
“Just because it’s not quite that high doesn’t mean it’s not concerning–especially with, like I said, the other comorbidities or diseases that these individuals could have,” Brady said
Brady said prolonged heat exposure poses serious risks for elderly residents
“Especially elderly — prolonged periods of exposure to heat can definitely be very concerning and even life-threatening if unaddressed,” she said
Brady said people should check on elderly loved ones and watch for signs including confusion, lack of sweat and changes in health
A media spokesperson for The Palms at Mount Pleasant’s management company provided the following statement in full:
“The safety, comfort and well-being of our residents remain our highest priority. Today, all residents have air conditioning in their apartments. There was a mechanical failure involving the community’s cooling system, which has been addressed. While repairs and replacement of cooling system components continue, a dedicated contractor remains onsite 24 hours a day, seven days a week to respond immediately to any issues and ensure resident comfort
As the community’s third-party management company, we responded immediately, proactively notified the Department of Public Health, and continue to work closely with the Department to ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations and guidance.”
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