Older people

The French government has requested postal workers to check on older individuals to prevent heat-related deaths as elders in France face extreme heat. This initiative aims to mitigate health risks associated with high temperatures.

Malaysia is experiencing a demographic shift as children under 14 account for 21.2% of the population in 2026, down from 21.6% in 2025, while the proportion of people aged 65 and above rises. This trend raises concerns about future workforce sustainability, tax contributions, and caregiving challenges.

Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related cause in the U.S., killing one person globally every minute, with a 23% increase since the 1990s. Climate change intensifies heat waves, while factors like El Niño and heat domes exacerbate risks. Vulnerable groups include outdoor workers, older adults, children, and those with chronic health conditions.

A heat wave caused 3,700 excess deaths across Europe, with older people disproportionately affected. In France, the prime minister faces a no-confidence vote linked to the crisis.

France recorded 1,000 excess deaths during a record-breaking heatwave, according to the public health agency Sante Publique. The agency warned the true figure is likely higher, with most deaths involving older people and expecting the mortality rate to rise as more data becomes available.

UK MPs have warned that exercise is as important as medication for maintaining health in older people, but insufficient efforts are being made to promote physical activity among seniors. The report highlights a gap between the recognized health benefits of exercise and actual public health initiatives to encourage it.