Understanding how older adults adapt to heat at night in urban environments

Adaptation to nighttime indoor heat exposure: the role of the built environment and behavioral factors

NIH-funded research Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11011448

This study looks at how older adults handle hot nights in cities and what helps them stay comfortable, so we can find better ways to keep them safe during heat waves.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTemple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011448 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how older adults cope with heat exposure during nighttime in urban settings, focusing on the influence of their living environment and personal behaviors. It aims to identify the factors that affect how well individuals adapt to high indoor temperatures, particularly during heat waves. By examining the built environment and individual adaptation behaviors, the study seeks to develop strategies to enhance resilience against climate-related health risks. The research will involve community engagement to ensure that the findings are relevant and beneficial to those affected.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above living in urban areas who may be vulnerable to heat exposure.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those living in rural areas may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for protecting older adults from heat-related health issues, enhancing their overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding environmental and behavioral factors can significantly improve adaptation strategies for vulnerable populations during extreme weather events.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.