Grant: Summer Program in Aging

Climate change impacts, including weather changes and health risks, affect everyone. But older adults, particularly immigrants of colour in Canada who immigrate from warmer parts of the world, experience unique challenges during extreme summers and harsh winters. Many of these older adults experience heat- or cold-related stress, illnesses and social isolation. These challenges are further worsened by barriers such as limited knowledge and access to services, cultural and language differences, with limited access to culturally relevant recreational programs. This study explores how climate change impacts the health and well-being of immigrant older adults of colour and how culturally inclusive, climate-safe recreation programs can help them integrate and adapt. Recreation activities like indoor gardening, early-morning shaded walks, cultural storytelling circles in extreme summer, and group exercise and cultural events in cooling centres etc, can promote physical activity, social connection, mental wellbeing, and environmental awareness to adapt to the challenges. This research examines how social, cultural, environmental, and structural factors interact to influence climate adaptation strategies and health outcomes. Using mixed methods, including qualitative interviews, surveys, and participatory workshops, the study aims to co-design and develop climate-safe recreation programs that are safe, accessible, and culturally relevant. By better understanding the related experiences, challenges and needs of immigrant older adults of colour in Canada, this research will help communities, practitioners, organizations, and policymakers create age-friendly, climate-safe recreation programs that promote holistic wellbeing. Ultimately, this study seeks to improve equitable access to community resources to ensure a better quality of life for older adults facing the challenges of a changing climate.