Grant: Project Grant

Climate change constitutes a serious and escalating threat to the lives, health, and safety of populations around the world as a result of extreme weather events (heat waves, tropical storms, fires, floods, landslides, or droughts) and gradual onset phenomena (disrupted livelihoods, mass displacement, food and water shortages, and resource scarcity). Older adults are particularly susceptible to negative outcomes from climate change related to normal age-related changes, chronic illnesses, increasing rates of disability, as well as other factors, such as inadequate housing, low/fixed incomes and living arrangements. The aim of this project is to better understand and enhance the climate resilience of older adults in Canada. The study will focus on two areas in that have recently experienced climate-related weather emergencies: Montreal, Quebec and Vancouver, British Columbia. We will explore the lived experience of older adults and their family/friend caregivers, as well as clinicians and policy/decision-makers who support this population. We will also develop policy and practice recommendations customized for older adults with these groups. The project will have important implications for policy development, clinical practice, and organizational supports to enhance the climate resilience of older Canadians.