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Impacts of climate change on elderly people

Published : Saturday, 8 June, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 672
Dr Matiur Rahman
Bangladeshs elders have been the cornerstones of families and communities, repositories of wisdom and tradition for decades. They have weathered cyclones and floods; their resilience is a testament to the nations indomitable spirit. However, climate change throws a harsh spotlight on their vulnerabilities, exposing the cracks in a social safety net already strained by poverty and limited resources.

Bangladesh, a land woven from the fertile threads of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, is no stranger to the whims of nature. Yet, in recent years, the familiar rhythm of the seasons has begun to falter, replaced by an unsettling symphony of extremes. Rising sea levels, erratic monsoon patterns, and increasingly frequent heatwaves paint a stark picture of a nation on the frontline of climate change. However, a particularly vulnerable population stands out within this unfolding crisis - Bangladeshs older generation.

Bangladeshs elders have been the cornerstones of families and communities, repositories of wisdom and tradition for decades. They have weathered cyclones and floods; their resilience is a testament to the nations indomitable spirit. However, climate change throws a harsh spotlight on their vulnerabilities, exposing the cracks in a social safety net already strained by poverty and limited resources.

One of the most immediate threats climate change poses is the rising frequency and intensity of heat waves. Sweltering temperatures become unbearable for older adults living in poorly ventilated homes constructed from corrugated tin or mudbrick. These dwellings, designed for a more temperate climate, offer little respite from the scorching sun. Dehydration, heatstroke, and worsening of pre-existing health conditions like heart disease and respiratory ailments become real dangers.

Many older people in rural areas rely on manual labour for subsistence, and these scorching days rob them of their ability to work in the fields, jeopardising their livelihood and pushing them further into economic insecurity. The traditional coping mechanisms employed for generations, like seeking refuge in courtyards shaded by large trees, become inadequate in the face of such prolonged and intense heat.

The erratic monsoon patterns present another set of challenges. Unpredictable rainfall disrupts agricultural cycles, leading to food insecurity and price hikes. This disproportionately affects older adults, particularly those dependent on their children for financial support. Untimely or insufficient monsoons can devastate rice crops, a staple food source. Even for those who manage to secure some rice, the rising cost puts additional strain on limited budgets.

Floods, a recurring nightmare in Bangladesh, become even more devastating with rising sea levels. Older adults, with limited mobility and access to information, are often the last to evacuate, putting them at greater risk of injury, displacement, and loss of loved ones. The psychological trauma of witnessing homes and possessions swept away by floodwaters can leave lasting scars, especially for those who have already weathered similar storms throughout their lives.

Beyond the physical dangers, climate change also takes a toll on the mental well-being of older adults. The loss of homes, livelihoods, and familiar surroundings can lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of isolation. Traditional coping mechanisms, honed over a lifetime of navigating hardship, may no longer be enough in the face of such rapid and unprecedented change.

Social support networks often centred around extended families living nearby, can be fractured by displacement caused by extreme weather events. This can be particularly detrimental for older adults who may already be experiencing social isolation due to a decline in physical mobility or the loss of spouses.

The impact of climate change on Bangladeshs elders goes beyond individual suffering. It weakens the very fabric of society. Elders are the storytellers, the knowledge keepers, the repositories of cultural practices and traditions passed down through generations. They are often the primary caregivers for young children, allowing parents to work. Their physical and mental well-being is critical for communities social and cultural continuity. A society that fails to protect its elders weakens its foundation.

There is, however, a glimmer of hope. The Bangladeshi government, NGOs, and international organisations are starting to recognise the specific needs of older adults in the context of climate change. Initiatives are underway to raise awareness about heatstroke prevention, improve early warning systems for extreme weather events, and provide targeted social safety nets for vulnerable populations.

Age-friendly shelters during disasters and access to healthcare facilities explicitly catering to the needs of older adults, including senior specialists and mental health services, are crucial steps in building resilience.

The fight against climate change cannot be won without addressing the vulnerability of Bangladeshs older generation. Investing in their well-being is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. Empowering them with knowledge, resources, and support will safeguard their lives and ensure their wisdom and resilience will guide future generations through changing world challenges.

Bangladeshs elders have spent their lives nurturing the nation; it is time for the country to return the favour, ensuring they can weather the literal and metaphorical storms with dignity and hope. Bangladesh can safeguard its past and build a more resilient future for all by fostering a society that respects, protects, and empowers its elders.

The writer is a development worker



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