Understanding how heat waves affect the elderly's heart health

Heat waves and the elderly: reducing thermal and cardiovascular consequences

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10914854

This study looks at how heat waves affect heart health in older adults and compares their responses to younger people, while also testing ways to help them stay cool and safe during extreme heat.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914854 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of heat waves on cardiovascular health in elderly individuals, focusing on how aging affects their ability to cope with extreme heat. The study will evaluate cardiovascular responses during simulated heat wave conditions, comparing the elderly to younger adults. It will also explore cooling strategies, such as skin wetting, to reduce heat-related stress on the heart. By understanding these dynamics, the research aims to identify effective interventions to protect the elderly during heat waves.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals who may be at risk during heat waves due to cardiovascular conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or those without cardiovascular concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing heat-related cardiovascular issues in the elderly.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that heat exposure significantly affects cardiovascular health, but this specific approach to mitigating risks in the elderly is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.