Climate Change and Rising Heat: A Growing Threat to Older Americans

By Dr. Patrise Holden

As climate change accelerates, extreme heat is emerging as a significant health threat in the United States, particularly for older adults. In recognition of Older Americans Month this May, organizations, climate advocates, and health experts alike are working to raise awareness of how rising temperatures disproportionately affect seniors, while exploring measures to safeguard them as Earth warms.​

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that the frequency of extremely hot days has risen in recent decades, a trend expected to persist. Older adults are especially susceptible to heat stress due to age-related physiological changes, chronic health conditions, and certain medications that impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

Many older adults live on fixed incomes and may not have air conditioning or be able to afford to use it. Others may not recognize the signs of heat-related illness until it’s too late. Thus, health experts warn that as the climate continues to warm and temperatures rise, education and preparedness for older Americans are essential.

“Clearly, our global climate is changing, and sadly, vulnerable communities are disproportionately impacted,” said Christopher King, dean of Georgetown University’s School of Health.

Why Older Adults Are Especially Vulnerable: Mental and Physical Risks

As people age, their ability to regulate body temperature diminishes. Factors such as chronic health conditions, medications that affect thermoregulation, and reduced mobility all contribute to seniors being more vulnerable to heat stress.

In addition, many older adults live on fixed incomes, which means they may lack access to air conditioning or possibly unable to afford to run it during heat waves.

Further, health professionals note some seniors may also experience cognitive decline or live alone, making it harder for them to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness or seek help when needed.

Since 2018, Dr. Shabab Wahid and Dr. Wameq Raza, senior health specialists at the World Bank, have spearheaded the ACCLIMATE study—Assessing the Risk of Climate Change on Population Mental and Physical Health Outcomes.

“If you look at the entire global pattern of what people have been finding,” Wahid, assistant professor at Georgetown University, explained, “[in] high-income and low-income settings, when there is heat, people’s mental health seems to deteriorate.”

In addition to physical ailments, heat exposure notably affects mental health, especially in older adults who may already face isolation or chronic illnesses.

Their research links extreme heat with increased anxiety, reduced productivity, and potentially even higher suicide risk.

“These are subtle but extremely consequential effects,” said Dr. Raza. “They affect how people function in their daily lives, especially those already facing health or economic disadvantages.”

Safeguarding Seniors’ Bodies and Minds in an Era of Extreme Weather

In honor of Older Americans Month, below are five tips, based on guidance from the EPA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to help protect older adults during extreme heat:

1. Stay Cool Indoors
   Encourage seniors to spend the hottest part of the day (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) in air-conditioned spaces. If they don’t have air conditioning at home, suggest alternatives like public libraries, shopping malls, or community cooling centers.
2. Hydrate Often
   Dehydration can sneak up fast in hot weather. Seniors should drink plenty of water, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine is also important, as both can contribute to fluid loss.
3. Dress Appropriately
   Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing can help the body stay cooler. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses provides protection from direct sun exposure when outdoors.
4. Check on Others
   Family members, neighbors, and caregivers should regularly check in on older adults, especially those living alone, those with mobility issues, or those lacking air conditioning. A simple call or visit can prevent a crisis.
5. Know the Warning Signs
   Early symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and confusion. If symptoms worsen or heat stroke is suspected—characterized by body temperatures above 103°F, unconsciousness, or dry, hot skin—immediate medical attention is critical.

Community-Level Solutions: A Lifeline for Vulnerable Populations

While individual action is important, broader systemic interventions are essential to protect both aging Americans and the planet against extreme heat.

As we honor the achievements and contributions of our nation’s seniors, we must also commit to community-based solutions to protect their health and well-being in the face of a changing climate.

“Heat action plans, including early warning systems, public cooling centers, and outreach programs, can save lives—especially among older populations,” according to the EPA.

Community-level interventions to protect both older Americans and the planet may include:

• Expanding green spaces and tree cover to reduce urban heat island effects.
• Subsidizing utility costs for low-income seniors so they can afford to run air conditioning.
• Creating accessible, cooled places for congregating in neighborhoods with high concentrations of older adults.
• Conducting wellness checks during heat waves.

“Our aging population deserves our attention and care, especially in the face of a changing climate,” the EPA emphasized. “By preparing now, we can reduce risks and help ensure that older Americans can thrive, even as the temperatures rise.”

This post appeared first on The Washington Informer.

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