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UK media outlet The Independent featured the results of research co-led by Gary Haq. The Healthy Ageing in a Changing Climate project worked with over 140 older people from all around the UK to co-design solutions to the well-being challenges posed by extreme weather.
Two older men chatting outdoors.
Research co-led by the Urban Institute at Heriot-Watt University has demonstrated that there is a pressing need for a specific focus on the well-being of ageing populations. As climate change intensifies extreme weather events, older people are likely to experience increasing negative impacts, from reduced mobility and social interaction, to health problems such as those caused by extreme heat.
The Healthy Ageing in a Changing Climate report focused on how to create age-friendly and climate resilient cities to combat these challenges. The report has been featured in The Independent.
Our research has found that we need to take a more holistic approach if we are to meet the needs of an ageing population in a changing climate, and protect their quality of life
Gary Haq, Senior Researcher
The interventions required to support people ageing through climate change include empowering older people to take climate action, recognising climate change as a public health issue, as well as tangible actions such as increasing shade in public spaces, creating resting points, and organising places for older people to shelter during extreme weather which will enable them to socialise as well as staying safe.
Other publication / Researchers identified six key areas for inclusive action and made detailed policy recommendations based on their work with older people in the UK.
Other publication / Our research contributed to this report for HelpAge International, which makes recommendations for supporting ageing populations through the climate crisis.
Media coverage / In The Conversation UK, Gary Haq discusses how older people are affected by climate change and how they can help to tackle it.
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