Italy opens cooling centers for seniors amid heat wave

The CGIL pensioners' union in Ragusa (Sicily) has opened its SPI facilities to provide air‑conditioned spaces, refreshments and information for older and vulnerable residents during the current heat wave. Union secretary Rosario Denaro said the centres aim to combat isolation and offer a cool refuge on especially hot days.

In northern Italy, the Asst Sette Laghi health authority in Varese reports more than 400 calls from frail citizens. Through its Cold Spot programme and a territorial operations centre, it coordinates phone monitoring, home visits and enhanced home care, directing people to community houses, hospitals and the newly‑opened climate‑controlled Cold Spot at the Varese community house. The integrated response involves general practitioners, social services and family nurses to prevent clinical deterioration among the most exposed.