In recent decades, the discourse on climate change has intensified, rightly focusing on its profound impact on ecosystems, economies, and human health. Amidst these discussions, one often overlooked demographic is the aging population and the distinct challenges they face in relation to climate change. Physical vulnerabilities, such as decreased mobility and chronic health conditions, can exacerbate the risks posed by extreme weather events like heatwaves or floods. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can affect the spread of infectious diseases, posing additional risks to older adults who may have weakened immune systems. Air quality deterioration due to increased pollution levels can further impact respiratory health, which is already a concern for many seniors.
In addition to all of this, older adults may also be isolated from necessary support systems, compounding the challenges they face. Lifespan is a resource for the aging population in Rochester to provide older adults with a support system. Lifespan helps older adults and caregivers take on the challenges and opportunities of longer life, providing unbiased information, guidance and more than 30 services, including advocacy, care navigation and planning, transportation, and education for caregivers. These types of services can significantly improve outcomes for older adults during extreme weather events or prolonged environmental changes.
As Americans continue to live longer, it will become more crucial to have resources such as Lifespan. Currently, in many areas in and around downtown Rochester, the additional life expectancy once turning 65 is lower than surrounding areas. Visit the RocHealthData map room to learn more about relevant health statistics for the aging population. On September 25 at 5:30 p.m., Lifespan will host their annual Dr. Rocco Vivenzio Memorial Symposium at The Jewish Community Center Hart Theater in Brighton. This symposium will feature Karl Pillemer, Ph.D., from Cornell, who will give a presentation about climate change and the aging population. Please visit the Lifespan website to register for this event.
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