Climate Change and Older Adults

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Why Are Older Adults More at Risk?

As we get older, our bodies change. Climate change events like heat waves, smoky air, and big storms can be much harder for older adults to handle. Here’s why:

• Our bodies don’t cool down as well as we age. This means older adults can get overheated faster during heat waves, which can be dangerous.
• Many older adults have health problems like heart or lung disease. Bad air or extreme heat can make these problems worse.
• Getting around can be tough. If there’s a flood or a wildfire, it’s harder for older adults to move quickly or evacuate.
• Some older adults depend on others for help with daily tasks or medical care. If a storm knocks out power or roads, getting that help can be tricky.
• Medications and aging can change how the body reacts to heat or pollution, making older adults even more sensitive to climate hazards.

What Can Community-Based Healthcare Teams Do?

Nurses are on the front lines when it comes to helping older adults. The study suggests a few key ways nurses, and all of us, can make a difference:

• Spot the risks early. Nurses can watch for signs that an older adult is struggling with heat, bad air, or stress from storms.
• Teach and prepare. Nurses can help older adults and their families learn what to do before, during and after extreme weather. This might mean making a plan for heat waves or knowing where to go if there’s a flood.
• Build support systems. Community groups, neighbours, and families can check in on older adults, especially during emergencies. Sometimes, just a phone call or a visit can save a life.
• Push for better policies. Nurses can speak up for changes that protect older adults, like cooling centers during heat waves or better emergency plans for nursing homes.

How Can We All Help?

Here are some simple things anyone can do:

• Check on older neighbors when it’s really hot, cold, or stormy.
• Help make emergency kits with water, food and medicines.
• Share information about local resources, like shelters or cooling centers.
• Encourage older adults to talk to their doctors about how to stay safe in extreme weather.

Looking Ahead

Climate change isn’t going away, but we can work together to protect the people who need it most. Nurses, families and communities all play a part. By understanding the risks and taking action, we can help older adults stay healthy and safe – no matter what the weather brings.

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