Growing Risks of Extreme Heat for Older Adults Highlight Need for Greater Awareness

As global temperatures rise and heat waves become increasingly severe, older adults are facing a mounting health threat that many remain unaware of. A comprehensive review of over 40 studies reveals that while older individuals often respond to heat waves by staying hydrated and relocating to cooler areas, there is a significant lack of awareness and preparedness for prolonged heat events. Many do not recognize the danger, often perceiving heat as less severe than storms or floods, earning it the nickname 'silent killer'.

The studies focused primarily on individual coping mechanisms, with limited attention to proactive planning or policy measures. Experts emphasize that risk perception among older adults and their caregivers is low, leading to insufficient preparation. This oversight is concerning given that most heat-related deaths in this population occur within their homes or during nighttime, indicating a failure to recognize or respond to warning signs.

The rising demographic of seniors—projected to outnumber children under five by 2050—is compounded by recent record-breaking heat in 2023 and 2024, making adaptation efforts more urgent. Experts warn that strategies effective in the past may no longer suffice, as aging bodies and medical conditions can intensify heat vulnerability. Medical conditions and certain medications may impair thermoregulation, increasing the risk of overheating.

Policy interventions, such as providing free transit during heat events or home environment modifications, are steps in the right direction. Building trust within communities and understanding specific needs are crucial for effective communication and behavior change. As summers grow hotter, increased awareness, preparedness, and targeted actions are essential to protect older populations from the deadly impacts of extreme heat.