'Wake-up call': Danger from heatwaves 'underestimated' for people over 60

A new global study reveals older people may face grave health risks from heatwaves at much lower temperatures than previously thought. Researchers found that people aged 60 and older could no longer maintain stable core temperatures at roughly 4.7-7.5 degrees Celsius lower than young adults. The study, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, emphasizes the need for tailored age-specific action plans and warning systems to protect senior citizens.

As Australia faces a hot El Niño summer, the risk of heat stress increases. The study's lead author, Qinqin Kong from Stanford University, highlighted that older adults are more vulnerable to heat due to reduced sweating, inefficient blood circulation, and chronic health conditions. The research estimates that 22% of people over 60 worldwide, approximately 290 million individuals, would experience unsafe heat for at least one month a year by 1.5 degrees Celsius of global warming.

At 4 degrees Celsius, this risk would only affect young adults. Australia's hotter regions, such as the Top End and Kimberley, are of particular concern. Experts warn that current resources may not be adequate to handle extreme heat events, especially for older people.