The study raised concerns about the impact of the climate emergency on the health of older people and stressed the need for immediate public health measures to support this vulnerable population.

As highlighted in the report presented at a public forum in Chennai, population ageing and climate-related factors namely climate-related hazards such as heatwaves, rising temperatures, air pollution and extreme weather events are disproportionately affecting people aged 60 years and above. Older individuals, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, are identified as being at particular risk of heat stress, dehydration, air quality deterioration and disease outbreaks, as a result of climate change.

The study's findings suggest that during prolonged exposure to heat, the health effects can worsen chronic illnesses commonly experienced by older adults that could lead to increased hospital admissions and higher mortality rates during the warmer summer months. Two important points it has made are that air pollution, which is already known to cause respiratory and cardiac issues, also adds to the health problems caused by the high temperatures of summer and the interaction between the two.

The findings highlight the importance of incorporating the specific needs of older people into climate adaptation strategies, which often do not adequately address the health and wellbeing needs of older adults who is rarely equipped with cooling systems, healthcare and early warning messages, said HelpAge India officials. The Report calls on the policy makers to incorporate age-sensitive issues into the policy process related to climate and health, such as community outreach and provision of accessible cooling centres during heatwaves as well as strengthening healthcare access.

During the launch, experts pointed out that India is fast moving towards a rapidly ageing population, with the population aged 60 and above projected to reach 340 million by 2050, making urgent action necessary to reduce climate-related health risks. They urged primary healthcare system strengthening, increased awareness creation and improved urban planning to mitigate heat islands in cities.

The study also highlights the elderly living in the rural areas who might face greater challenges in accessing adaptation resources and healthcare services. Targeted support for nutrition, hydration, mobility and social networks to reduce the negative effects on seniors when confronted with a climate shock.

As the climate crisis intensifies, HelpAge India's research seeks to contribute information to the Government and civil society and community groups so that older persons can be better protected, the group said. In an era of climate change, it is both a moral obligation and a public health priority to place the health of senior citizens at the heart of climate response.