Climate-Fueled Extreme Temperatures Are Especially Deadly for Aging Populations

Climate-Fueled Extreme Temperatures Are Especially Deadly for Aging Populations

As global temperatures continue to rise, the most vulnerable among us—older adults—are increasingly at risk from extreme heat. Recent reports highlight the devastating impact of heat waves on aging populations, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive climate action and targeted protective measures.

In early May 2024, temperatures soared past 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 Celsius) in India, causing widespread heat-related illnesses. This relentless heat wave stretched from Japan to the Philippines, disrupting daily life and leading to the deaths of hundreds. Students in Cambodia were sent home as their classrooms became unbearable, and farmers in Thailand mourned the loss of livestock and withered crops. The southwestern United States also experienced severe heat, with Phoenix enduring temperatures above 110 F for 31 consecutive days in 2023.

The Growing Threat to Older Adults

Regardless of location, one pattern remains consistent: older adults are the most likely to die from extreme heat. This crisis is poised to worsen as two global trends converge. First, we are experiencing the hottest temperatures on record. The period from 2015 to 2023 was the warmest since global records began in 1880. Second, the global population is aging. By 2050, the number of people aged 60 and older will double to nearly 2.1 billion, representing 21% of the global population.

Our research projects that by 2050, over 23% of the global population aged 69 and older will reside in regions where peak temperatures routinely exceed 99.5°F (37.5°C), compared to just 14% today. This translates to an additional 250 million older adults exposed to life-threatening heat.

Health Risks and Vulnerabilities

Extreme heat exacerbates common age-related health conditions such as heart, lung, and kidney diseases. Older adults sweat less than younger individuals, impairing their ability to cool down. Medications like anticholinergics and diuretics further reduce their capacity to manage heat, increasing the risk of dehydration, dizziness, and falls.

Moreover, poor air quality during heat waves complicates breathing for those with respiratory issues, and the lack of air conditioning in many homes intensifies these dangers. Nighttime heat is particularly harmful, disrupting sleep and leading to confusion and depression.

Social and Emotional Impact

Being confined indoors due to extreme heat can lead to isolation and depression among older adults. Those with cognitive impairments may not recognize the danger or understand heat advisories. Physical mobility limitations and lack of transportation make it difficult for many to reach cooling centers or find respite in parks and lakes.

Regional Disparities and Systemic Issues

The challenges are even greater in low- and middle-income countries, where many older adults live in substandard housing without access to reliable healthcare, clean water, or cooling appliances. This "systemic cooling poverty" exacerbates the health risks associated with extreme heat.

Policy and Community Action

Policymakers must prioritize reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing effective heat adaptation plans tailored to regional needs. Wealthier areas can invest in early warning systems, cooling centers, and expanded power grids, while poorer regions require significant infrastructure improvements and support for healthcare and housing.

Conclusion

As the World Health Organization and Pan American Health Organization warn, this decade is critical for preparing communities to handle rising heat and protecting aging populations. By heeding this call and implementing comprehensive climate and health strategies, we can mitigate the impacts of extreme heat and safeguard our most vulnerable citizens.

 Climate change is causing extreme temperatures globally, disproportionately affecting older adults. With rising temperatures and an aging global population, the risk of heat-related health issues is increasing. By 2050, 23% of the world's population aged 69 and older will live in areas with extreme heat. Older adults are more susceptible to heat due to health conditions, medication effects, and decreased ability to cool down. The situation is dire in low- and middle-income countries with poor infrastructure. Policymakers need to address greenhouse gas emissions and improve heat adaptation strategies to protect vulnerable populations.

FAQs

Why are older adults more affected by extreme heat? Older adults have reduced ability to sweat and cool down, often have chronic health conditions, and may take medications that exacerbate heat effects.

What health risks do older adults face during extreme heat? Heat can worsen heart, lung, and kidney diseases, cause dehydration, delirium, and increase the risk of falls and injuries.

How does climate change contribute to this problem? Climate change leads to higher temperatures and more frequent heat waves, increasing the risk of heat-related health issues.

Why are low- and middle-income countries more vulnerable? These regions often lack adequate housing, healthcare, and access to cooling resources, making it harder to cope with extreme heat.

What can be done to protect older adults from extreme heat? Policymakers can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve infrastructure, and develop targeted heat adaptation strategies.

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