The Journals of Gerontology, Series A

Older adults and extreme weather events: recommendations from the Research Centers Collaborative Network workshop

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Abstract

Extreme weather events are increasingly recognized as critical determinants of health and well-being in later life. To identify priorities for advancing research at the intersection of these events and aging, the Research Centers Collaborative Network convened a 1.5-day interdisciplinary workshop. This article synthesizes discussions across three domains: the effects of weather-related hazards on aging and health outcomes; the vulnerabilities and resilience of older adults; and interventions to mitigate risk. Key priorities include longitudinal studies that capture cumulative exposures and long-term outcomes across the life course, greater attention to heterogeneity within older populations, and the design of interventions responsive to social and environmental contexts.

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