Extreme heat threat to older people

Researchers warn that 'zombie' microbes may reawaken as Earth's ice melts

- Sheree Bega

Older people face increasing health risks from extreme heat as climate change intensifies, the United Nations Environment Programme (Unep) has warned.

In the latest edition of its Frontiers Report, it said adults aged 65 and above are becoming an increasingly dominant part of societies worldwide, especially in the cities of lowand middle-income countries.

The report highlights other effects of climate change, including the melting of glaciers that reawaken ancient pathogens and floods that risk releasing dangerous chemicals, as well as potential solutions to these emerging environmental issues.

Since the 1990s, there has been an estimated 85% rise in annual heat-related deaths of older people.

The global population aged 65 and older is projected to increase from 10% in 2024 to 16% by 2050, primarily in lowand middle-income countries, the report notes. Concurrently, climate change is exacerbating risks such as heatwaves, air pollution and floods, which disproportionately threaten older people.

The world is also becoming increasingly urbanised, with about 57% of its population now living in cities. By 2050, this figure is expected to rise to 68%.

"A rising number of cities will therefore soon face the new reality of increasingly ageing urban dwellers," the report said.

The risks of respiratory, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, and the risk of mortality, become particularly acute for frail people with reduced mobility and chronic health issues.

Air pollution and chemical contamination increase the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, dementia, depression and anxiety. Poverty, crowded cities and social isolation also raise the vulnerability of older people.

The report recommends transforming cities into age-friendly, pollution-free, resilient, accessible spaces with expansive vegetation through better urban planning.