Core Points - The increasing trend of elderly people seeking refuge in air-conditioned commercial spaces during extreme heat highlights a growing public health concern [1][2][3] - The establishment of a national heat health risk warning system indicates a shift in focus from meteorological issues to public health implications [3][4] - The aging population in China is projected to exceed 30% by 2035, exacerbating the risks associated with extreme heat [3][4] Group 1: Impact of Extreme Heat on the Elderly - In 2023, several regions in China experienced temperatures exceeding 40°C, leading to a surge in heat-related illnesses among the elderly [3][4] - The number of elderly individuals affected by heatwaves in China has increased significantly, from 11.96 million in 2001 to 30.31 million in 2020, with projections of an additional 1.12 million each year [4][5] - Research indicates that the elderly population is particularly vulnerable to heat-related deaths, with 54.5% of heat-related mortality occurring in those aged 75 and above [4][6] Group 2: Vulnerabilities and Risks - Many elderly individuals lack access to air conditioning and live in poorly insulated homes, increasing their risk during heatwaves [5][6] - The rise in solitary living among the elderly, with 54% of elderly individuals living alone, further compounds their vulnerability to extreme heat [5][6] - Studies show that heat-related deaths are most prevalent among elderly individuals who are sick, live alone, and lack social support [6][7] Group 3: Public Health Response and Recommendations - There is a need for comprehensive "age-friendly" cooling systems, including government initiatives to create air-conditioned public spaces for the elderly [8][9] - Community health initiatives should focus on identifying high-risk elderly individuals and providing regular check-ins during heatwaves [8][9] - Effective communication strategies are essential to ensure that heat health warnings reach vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly [9][10]