Heat-health behaviours of older people in two Australian states

Australas J Ageing. 2015 Mar;34(1):E19-25. doi: 10.1111/ajag.12134. Epub 2014 Mar 12.

Abstract

Aim: A major heatwave occurred in Australia in early 2009 with considerable and varied health impacts in South Australia (SA) and Victoria. The aim of this study was to investigate the heat-adaptive behaviours of older people in these states.

Methods: A computer-assisted telephone survey of 1000 residents of SA and Victoria aged 65 years or older was conducted at the end of summer 2010-2011.

Results: The majority of respondents reported undertaking heat-adaptive behaviours. In SA, there was a significantly higher proportion of households with air conditioning compared to Victoria, and a higher recall of heat-health messages. In both states, self-reported morbidity during heatwaves was higher in women, persons with poorer health and those with cardiovascular conditions.

Conclusion: An increase in global temperatures in conjunction with an ageing population is a concern for public health. Our findings suggest acclimatisation to hot weather may influence behaviours and health outcomes in older people.

Keywords: Australia; acclimatisation; adaptive behaviour; aged; extreme heat.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acclimatization
  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / psychology*
  • Air Conditioning
  • Body Temperature Regulation
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Surveys
  • Heat Stress Disorders / diagnosis
  • Heat Stress Disorders / physiopathology
  • Heat Stress Disorders / prevention & control
  • Heat Stress Disorders / psychology*
  • Hot Temperature*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • New South Wales
  • Seasons
  • Sex Factors
  • South Australia