An insight into the impact of climate change on the health of elderly

Climate change poses a significant global challenge to human health, particularly impacting vulnerable populations like the elderly. Nevertheless, existing reviews lack understandings from institutions that specialize in climate change and health, which inform policies on environmental health. 

Since the First World Climate Conference in 1979, climate change has been recognized as a critical issue, with the 1994 UN Framework Convention defining it as human-induced alterations to the global atmosphere. Indicators of climate change, such as rising carbon dioxide levels and global temperatures, have shown alarming trends, with a warning from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) about the risks of exceeding a 1.5°C increase in temperature.

Climate change affects human health directly (e.g., through extreme weather and temperature changes) and indirectly (e.g., through air quality and food safety). The aging population, projected to reach 2 billion individuals over 60 by 2050, is particularly vulnerable due to physiological changes and socioeconomic factors that exacerbate their risk. Healthcare professionals, especially in nursing, are often unprepared to address these challenges, leading organizations like the International Council of Nurses to advocate for better training and strategies.

To address the gap in knowledge and resources, a scoping review is proposed to synthesize existing literature on the effects of climate change on the health of older adults. This review will focus on identifying health problems related to climate change, assessing the most significant threats, and guiding nursing professionals in developing appropriate care plans. 

Source: Montoro-Ramírez EM, Parra-Anguita L, Álvarez-Nieto C, et al. Effects of climate change in the elderly’s health: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2022;12:e058063. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058063