[The older population in the context of air pollution and climate change : Current vulnerability and prevention of associated risks].

Abstract

Both air pollution and climate change pose a particular threat to the health and independence of the older population. Air pollution not only leads to an increased rate of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases it also increases the risk of sarcopenia and frailty. Therefore, healthy ageing is inconceivable without sustainable environmental protection. Under study conditions traditional approaches to cooling during heat waves (e.g., foot baths and fans) have been proven to be inadequate for older persons. Identifying people at risk and introducing preventive measures, including medication adjustments, are of great importance in this context. Overcoming the challenges of environmental protection is a task for society as a whole; however, the medical profession has a special responsibility with respect to the rapidly growing group of vulnerable senior citizens.