Heading: Endnotes for Climate Change and Older Adults: Impacts on Health and Well-being
Climate Change and Older Adults: Understanding the Impact
As the population of older adults in the United States continues to grow, it is important to consider the impact of climate change on this vulnerable demographic. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of individuals aged 60 and older is on the rise, with projections indicating that older people will outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history. This demographic shift has significant implications for public health, particularly in the face of a changing climate.
Climate change is already affecting the health and well-being of older adults in a variety of ways. Extreme heat events, worsened air quality, and the spread of vector-borne diseases are just a few examples of how climate change is impacting this population. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to these health risks due to age-related physiological changes, chronic health conditions, and social factors such as limited mobility and access to resources.
Extreme heat events, for example, can pose serious health risks for older adults, leading to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and dehydration. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that older adults are more likely to experience heat-related health problems due to age-related changes in the body’s ability to regulate temperature. As temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of heat waves are expected to increase, putting older adults at even greater risk.
Poor air quality is another concern for older adults, as they are more likely to have underlying health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes that can be exacerbated by air pollution. The EPA notes that older adults are at higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems due to poor air quality, which can be worsened by climate change-related factors such as wildfires and increased ozone levels.
In addition to heat-related illnesses and poor air quality, older adults are also at risk for vector-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Climate change is contributing to the spread of these diseases by altering the habitats of disease-carrying insects such as ticks and mosquitoes. Older adults may be more susceptible to these diseases due to age-related changes in the immune system and decreased mobility, making them more likely to come into contact with disease-carrying vectors.
It is clear that climate change poses significant challenges for the health and well-being of older adults. As the population of older adults continues to grow, it is essential that public health efforts address the unique vulnerabilities of this demographic in the face of a changing climate. By understanding the impact of climate change on older adults and taking proactive measures to protect this population, we can work towards a healthier and more resilient future for all.