Older adults are unprepared for life-threatening extreme heat
Older adults underestimate the risks of heat waves, researchers say
- Older adults in the US are highly vulnerable to extreme heat waves but often lack awareness and preparedness, despite heat being the leading weather-related killer.
- A recent review of over 40 studies highlighted low risk perception among older individuals and their caregivers regarding the dangers of extreme heat.
- Many heat-related fatalities among older adults occur in their homes, frequently at night, suggesting a lack of recognition of the danger.
- The growing number of older adults, coupled with their increased isolation and prevalence of disabilities, exacerbates their susceptibility to heat's effects.
- Heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense due to the human-caused climate crisis, leading to a doubling of heat deaths in the US since 1999 and worsening chronic health conditions.