3.H. Workshop: Climate change and older people: a public health perspective with a focus on equity

Abstract

Abstract The climate crisis has been recognized as the largest threat to human health in the 21st century, with frequent and prolonged heat waves and the related health consequences being a key concern in European countries. While in the public health discourse related to the climate crisis, older people have been identified as a vulnerable group in general, the needs, views and vulnerabilities of older people and the responsive actions required are currently poorly defined and lacking in detail. In addition, equity aspects are often neglected as older people are often addressed (only) as a broad target group (e.g. as the 65+). This workshop session will foster a knowledge, research and experience exchange on the situation of older people in the context of the climate crisis and increasing heatwaves in different European countries with a focus on lessons for implementation in public health. The contributions in the session use both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to highlight the heterogeneity and vulnerabilities of different subgroups of older people; and the inequalities driving and resulting in the specific impacts of rising heat and climate change in this growing demographic group. The session will also review current heat wave policies and share evidence and best practice to inform the development of responsive public health solutions. Key messages • Older populations are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate instability and extreme weather events. Understanding which subgroups are at greater risk will enable better public health responses. • Current policies provide limited insights on actions, barriers and enablers for building resilience in older population groups in response to climate change for equitable public health responses.