Study examines climate advocacy for seniors

While scientists say extreme climate changes are happening more frequently, a new study aims to link aging adults to it's risks and their potential to advocate for solutions.

Academic leaders at Cornell University have developed the Aging and Climate Change Clearinghouse in an effort to understand this unique intersection, and work together toward solutions.

The University's Hazel E. Reed Professor of Psychology and Professor of Gerontology at Weill Cornell Medicine, Karl Pillemer, directs the project. He said older adults are the most vulnerable when it comes to the effects of climate change, which makes them the most qualified people to fight for solutions.

"When it comes to environmental organizations," said Pillemer, "we want them to understand that there's a vast untapped reservoir of potential volunteers and activists who they aren't reaching out to, namely the 75 million baby boomers and beyond."

Pillemer said there needs to be a plan for assisting vulnerable older adults - such as those living in nursing homes, or with limited mobility - who have moved in large numbers to climate-vulnerable regions.

The clearinghouse mobilizes older adults and environmental groups for sustainable climate solutions.

Pillemer said older people volunteer in hospitals, schools and churches, but only around 1% do so primarily in the areas of environmental issues or civic engagement.

He said research shows that as we age, we have a desire to help people from our own generation - and climate change solutions are a perfect fit for seniors.

"Leaving a legacy, helping a world that you yourself may not live to see," said Pillemer, "there's hardly any better way to do that, than to help to preserve the environment for future generations - and to help protect your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren against the effects of a changing climate."

Older adults can contribute stories or concerns on the clearinghouse website. Scientists can sign up as research affiliates, and organizations can recruit help.

More information is online at ClimateAging.BCTR.Cornell.EDU.