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Seniors have options for help in extreme heat

The extreme heat means air conditioners are running non-stop. But that can be costly for some older adults on fixed incomes. 

There are some options for seniors who are struggling to pay their utility bills, or have malfunctioning AC units, according to Dana Marie Kennedy, the state director of AARP Arizona. 

"Regarding utility assistance, if you are APS or SRP, reach out to them, let them know that you're struggling to pay your bills. You'll need to fill out an application. And again, you know, a lot of times cities will connect you to the services as well."

For example, the city of Phoenix has an Office of Heat Response and Mitigation

Kennedy also suggests calling 211 for a list of possible resources. Another option is to visit a senior center if your AC is not sufficiently cooling your home. 

AARP Arizona has a page listing resources for dealing with the heat.

More stories about Phoenix's heat wave

KJZZ senior field correspondent Kathy Ritchie has 20 years of experience reporting and writing stories for national and local media outlets — nearly a decade of it has been spent in public media.