Addressing the growing impact of climate change on ageing populations through inclusive, resilient action.
Climate change is increasingly shaping the conditions in which people age. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental disruption are placing growing strain on health, social care, and community systems worldwide. Older people are often among those most affected, particularly those living with chronic conditions, functional limitations, social isolation, or limited access to essential services. As population ageing accelerates globally, the intersection between climate change and ageing is becoming increasingly important, with clear implications for how societies prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-related events.
IFA’s work supports the integration of ageing into climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and recovery policies. Climate-related events – such as heatwaves, floods, wildfires, and extreme weather – have a disproportionate impact on older people, particularly those living with chronic conditions, functional limitations, social isolation, or limited access to services.
IFA works to ensure that climate policies and preparedness plans recognize the specific needs, capacities, and contributions of older people, and that health, social care, and community systems are equipped to respond before, during, and after climate-related emergencies. By centring ageing within climate action, IFA aims to promote inclusive, resilient responses that protect health, dignity, and wellbeing across the life course.
A selection of publications, initiatives, and activities related to this area of work.
Explore all IFA publications, tools, and learning resources.
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