GAPNA Advocates Urgent Action on Climate Change's Effects on Seniors
GAPNA Advocates Urgent Action on Climate Change's Effects on Seniors
The Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association (GAPNA) has recently published a significant position statement that underscores the essential function of Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) in confronting the health challenges posed by climate change on older adults. This initiative aligns closely with the American Nurses Association (ANA)'s stance on climate change, where climate change is acknowledged as a pressing public health issue that demands immediate intervention.
In an enlightening statement, Dr. Valerie Sabol, who has made substantial contributions to GAPNA and has held the position of past president, commented, "As APNs, it is imperative that we weave climate-informed care into every facet of geriatric health. With older adults facing greater dangers from severe weather events, air pollution, and natural disasters, it is vital that we approach their care from a perspective that considers climate influences."
The position statement is firmly grounded in the latest insights from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and highlights the necessity for APNs to implement climate-informed strategies within their clinical practices as well as their educational and advocacy roles. With projections suggesting that the global elderly population will double by the year 2050, GAPNA stresses that older adults are particularly susceptible to both the direct and indirect impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, elevated temperatures, air pollution, and threats to food and water security.
The full Position Statement is a pivotal resource available for clinicians, educators, and researchers committed to improving the health outcomes of older adults as our world changes rapidly due to environmental shifts. In this statement, GAPNA encourages APNs to adopt proactive strategies that involve advocating for climate policies, fostering resilience among aging populations, and embedding climate science into geriatric nursing education and practice.
Key Impacts of Climate Change on Older Adults
- - Heat-Related Illnesses: The elderly are especially vulnerable to extreme heat, leading to conditions such as heat stress and dehydration. APNs are urged to evaluate environmental risks effectively while managing ongoing health issues and prescribing necessary treatments with caution.
- - Cardiovascular and Respiratory Stress: Increased temperatures and deteriorating air quality worsen pre-existing heart and lung conditions, consequently raising hospitalization and mortality rates.
- - Natural Disasters: A higher likelihood of physical and emotional trauma from natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, impacts older adults significantly. APNs are tasked with aiding patients in developing disaster-response strategies and guaranteeing healthcare access during crises.
- - Mental Health Concerns: Events linked to climate change can provoke anxiety, PTSD, and depression among older individuals, particularly those with existing mental health challenges.
GAPNA also points out the looming psychological ramifications of climate change, such as eco-anxiety and trauma from environmental catastrophes. The statement stresses the necessity for trauma-informed care for older adults who must navigate these new and daunting challenges.
Dr. Sabol emphasized a call to action for health professionals, policymakers, and community leaders, urging collective efforts to tackle the health risks posed by climate change and to advocate for climate justice concerning aging populations. She stated, "The consequences of climate change on older adults are not a far-off issue; they represent a present and escalating crisis. APNs have a crucial role to play in championing policies that protect our aging communities, ensuring that they have the necessary care, resources, and preparedness to manage environmental challenges with resilience."
About GAPNA
The Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association (GAPNA) stands at the forefront of advocating for the interests of advanced practice nurses, educators, and researchers involved in geriatric care. For further information, please visit GAPNA’s Official Website.
Topics Health）
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