ACCIDENTAL HYPOTHERMIA AMONG THE ELDERLY: AN EDUCATIONAL PREVENTION PROGRAM

Accidental hypothermia, the unintentional drop in body temperature below 95 Fahrenheit from exposure to the cold, poses a significant health threat to people over 65. Faced with rising fuel costs and appeals to conserve energy, many older Americans may set their thermostats below 70 F and thus increase their risk of becoming hypothermia victims. This paper discusses the problem of hypothermia and specific factors that put older individuals at risk. Also described is the development, implementation, and evaluation of an educationally oriented prevention program.     

Modelling Social Segregation

This paper proposes a multilevel modelling approach to the analysis of social segregation in schools. Using data on free school meal eligibility it shows that the underlying variation between schools for the period 1994-1999 has increased. It also shows that the change is greater for selective than non-selective local education authorities (LEAs). It is suggested that the approach of this paper can be applied generally to the modelling of social segregation at institution level.     

Jonah’s Birth

Rachel Goldstein shares her experience of exploring options related to care provider and place of birth early in her pregnancy. Goldstein and her husband, Marc, after reading and research, chose midwifery care and a home birth. She shares the story of a long labor at home supported by her husband, her doula, and her midwife. Her positive attitude, her ability to use various comfort strategies, and the support she received throughout labor contributed to being able to give birth naturally and ecstatically to her son Jonah.