The double test: Building climate-resilient health systems fit for an ageing world

Climate change and population ageing are two of the most significant global health challenges of our time and have profound impacts on the physical and mental health of populations worldwide. Rapid global population ageing and climate change are happening concurrently, and health systems must adapt to both urgently. 

There is an opportunity to strengthen healthy ageing in a changing climate by ensuring infrastructure is both age-friendly and climate-resilient. 

About the briefing paper

This policy briefing highlights how the combination of climate change and rapid population ageing is placing an unprecedented strain on health systems, particularly in low and middle-income countries. This leaves older people at greater risk from climate threats, like extreme heat and floods. At the same time, older people hold vital but often overlooked knowledge on tackling the climate crisis in their communities.

The UK Government can drive forward global action by promoting climate-resilient and person-centred health systems and policies, and championing healthy ageing within global agreements - including at the upcoming COP30 summit.

Recommendations

The briefing makes five recommendations for the UK Government. Read the recommendations in full by downloading the briefing.

1. Invest in climate-resilient and people-centred primary health care for all ages
2. Fund age-friendly and climate-resilient health infrastructure
3. Strengthen and train the health workforce for climate change and an ageing population
4. Promote the meaningful participation of older people in climate change action, and mandate the use of inclusive data across climate and health programming
5. Leverage UK diplomatic strength to drive a unified global climate, health, and ageing agenda