Record Number of Seniors Turn to Phoenix Cooling Center as Extreme Heat Continues

As triple-digit temperatures continue across Phoenix, one senior-focused cooling center is experiencing its busiest summer on record. The Justa Center, which provides daytime services for adults aged 55 and older, says it has welcomed more than 100 visitors every day since May. Staff believe a combination of prolonged heat, rising living costs, and increased financial hardship is driving more seniors to seek relief.

Increase

The Justa Center, located near Jefferson Street and 10th Avenue in Phoenix, has reported a significant rise in attendance compared with previous summers.

According to staff, the center has operated seasonal heat relief programs for the past four years, but this year has seen an unusually high number of daily visitors.

Officials say the increase likely reflects both an earlier start to extreme summer temperatures and the growing number of older adults struggling to afford air conditioning and utility bills.

Visitors

Since May, the center has consistently served more than 100 people each day.

Visitor Information	Details
Daily visitors	More than 100
Heat relief program	Operating for four years
Eligible daytime visitors	Adults 55 and older

Staff say many visitors rely on the center as a safe place to spend the hottest hours of the day.

Challenges

Many seniors visiting the center face more than just extreme temperatures. According to staff, a large number live alone and manage ongoing health conditions that become more difficult during heat waves.

Some visitors also experience early-stage dementia, with high temperatures making symptoms more severe.

In addition, many older adults are living on fixed incomes, making it difficult to keep up with increasing housing and utility costs.

Risks

Heat remains one of Arizona’s most serious seasonal health hazards, particularly for older adults.

According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, seniors accounted for nearly all indoor heat-related deaths and almost half of outdoor heat-related deaths last year.

These figures highlight the importance of accessible cooling centers during periods of extreme heat.

Support

The Justa Center provides much more than air-conditioned space.

Visitors have access to a range of essential services, including:

• Cold drinking water
• Daily meals
• Healthcare connections
• Showers
• Laundry facilities
• Clean clothing
• Phone access
• Case management services

Staff say these services help seniors meet daily needs while staying safe during dangerous weather.

Experience

Thomas Fink, who has been visiting the center with his dog Lila for the past three months, says the facility has become an important part of his daily routine.

He explained that the Arizona heat affects both people and pets, making a cool indoor space especially valuable.

Fink also appreciates that the center is designed specifically for adults aged 55 and older, providing a quieter environment than some larger public shelters.

Another visitor, Victor Wedel, said the center offers convenient access to food and services without requiring him to travel in extreme heat.

Hours

The Justa Center remains open every day throughout the summer.

Operating Hours	Access
7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.	Adults 55 and older
3:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.	Open to anyone seeking cooling

Staff encourage anyone exposed to prolonged heat to spend time indoors whenever possible and avoid extended periods in direct sunlight.

Outlook

With additional triple-digit temperatures expected in the coming days, the Justa Center is preparing for continued high demand throughout the summer.

As extreme heat becomes more frequent, cooling centers continue to play an important role in helping vulnerable residents remain safe. For many older adults, these facilities provide not only relief from the weather but also access to food, healthcare resources, and other essential services that support daily living.

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