UN Sounds Alarm on Extreme Heat Risks to Elderly

On 10th July 2025, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released its Frontiers report titled The Weight of Time, warning of a sharp rise in heat-related deaths among the elderly due to worsening global temperatures and urban heat stress.

Key Points

85% Rise in Deaths since 1990s: Heat-related deaths among people aged 65 and above have increased by an estimated 85% since the 1990s and a 2°C global temperature rise could raise this by 370% by 2050.
Tropical & Urban Risk Zones: Older adults in tropical regions may see dangerous heat exposure double, while those in mid-latitude areas could experience levels 3–10 times higher than current conditions.
India’s Alarming Trend: Between 1986–2005 and 2013–2022, India’s elderly population experienced 2.1 to 4 more heatwave days annually per person, significantly increasing their vulnerability.
Urbanisation Challenge: By 2050, 68% of the global population is projected to live in urban areas, with a rising number of elderly urban residents exposed to climate-related health hazards.
Health Threats: Prolonged heat exposure increases the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, respiratory conditions and other fatal outcomes among older adults.
Urban Planning Solutions: The report calls for age-friendly, green and climate-resilient urban environments and advocates for the '15-minute city' model to provide essential services within walking or cycling distance.