How climate change affects the health of older adults
Official title: Aging and Health in a Changing Climate
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-10878645 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how extreme weather events, like heat waves and hurricanes, affect the health of older adults, including their risk of injury and mental health challenges, and it aims to create a helpful online center to improve research and support for these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $792,225 |
| NIH project number | 1R61AG086854-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10878645 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be affected by climate-related health risks.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 or those not living in areas prone to climate-related events may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the health impacts of climate-related events, such as heat waves and hurricanes, on older adults. It aims to understand how these events lead to increased mortality, injuries, and mental health issues like PTSD. The project will create a virtual center that integrates social and environmental data to enhance research on aging and climate health. By providing training and resources, it seeks to break down barriers that prevent effective use of climate data in health research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and better preparedness for older adults facing climate-related challenges.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the health impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations, making this approach both relevant and timely.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hunter, Lori M. — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Hunter, Lori M.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.