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Working in someone else's home

(31 Posts)
Biscuitmuncher Tue 26-May-26 19:07:29

I'm a cleaner/helper for a disabled lady. I love it, it's a really nice job she's great company and we have a laugh. But, I run quite warm even in the winter I don't get cold. This week is a killer and she won't let me open the door or windows! I thought I was going to pass out today! What do I do?

Fleur20 Wed 27-May-26 19:47:21

Search ice towels on amazon... You soak them under the cold tap and wring them out.. drape round your neck or round your waist.. simply wonderful!!

Norah Wed 27-May-26 19:54:18

Work wonders!

narrowboatnan Thu 28-May-26 13:30:38

Neck fan! Best thing ever. I love mine 😀

CanadianGran Thu 28-May-26 20:27:07

I would find a portable thermometer with fairly large numbers to prove the temperature to her. Explain that you cannot work when the temp is above 80 degrees (or whatever is workable for you), and that you must have air moving to stay comfortable.

It is known that elderly people cannot regulate their body temperature, and are in danger of heat stroke themselves, even though they can't feel it.

A bowl of ice set in front of a fan will also bring cool air into a room.

Plevey08 Thu 28-May-26 21:18:14

I think I'd pop my clogs...never mind pass out. I feel so sorry for you. My sister is housebound. and because she sits all the time she is always chilly, even in this heat. She has a cleaner and she called to say she won't come in until the heatwave has passed. I agreed and explained to my sister that it would be unbearable for her to work in there as she never wants windows or doors opened or a fan . Yes it is better in heat to keep the sun out but the sun isn't at the back of the house so you can get a bit of a through draught. Government are being advised that hospitals, care homes and schools will need money invested for air conditioning because of climate change. Does she have a family member you can contact to explain for future heatwaves? It wouldn't be a huge inconvenience if you said you'd have to come at the end of the week. You have all my sympathy.