Escalating Heat Exposure Threatens Elderly Populations
By 2050, the global population over 60 years is projected to reach a staggering 210 crore, with over two-thirds concentrated in vulnerable low- and middle-income nations. This aging population faces a dire threat as climate change intensifies acute heat exposure worldwide.
Asia and Africa Bear the Brunt of Extreme Heat
Asia and Africa are particularly susceptible to severe heat, with the projected increase in older adults exposed to dangerous heat ranging from 177 to 246 crore by 2050. Asia alone is anticipated to witness an exponential growth in this vulnerable demographic, reaching between 588 to 748 million individuals aged 69 and above.
Acute Heat Exposure Thresholds Surpassed
By 2050, over 23% of the global population aged 69 will reside in regions experiencing acute heat exposure exceeding the critical threshold of 37.5 degrees Celsius. This represents a substantial increase from 14% in 2020.
Increased Demand for Social and Health Services
The intersection of aging populations and rising heat exposure poses significant challenges for societies, demanding heightened social and healthcare services. Older adults are particularly susceptible to hyperthermia and other heat-related health ailments, necessitating innovative policy interventions.
Policy Imperative: Adapting to Heat Exposure
Policymakers must prioritize heat adaptation strategies to mitigate the escalating risks faced by elderly populations. This includes robust public health measures, infrastructure improvements, and disaster preparedness plans.
Climate Change Adaptation Planning
The findings of this research underscore the importance of integrating health considerations into climate change adaptation planning. By understanding the population-level impacts of heat exposure, policymakers can develop targeted interventions to protect vulnerable populations effectively.
