Planning for older people in a rapidly warming and ageing world: the role of urban greening

Rapidly ageing populations are coinciding with urbanisation and climate change providing a global challenge. Older people experience higher rates of mortality and morbidity from extreme heat. Climate change is expected to magnify urban heat island effects. Green infrastructure is increasingly recognised as capable of mitigating urban heat and could alleviate some heat burdens on seniors. This research investigated the enablers and barriers to green infrastructure provision in aged care facilities in Australia with senior management from four large national aged care providers. While potential multiple advantages were identified, providers need evidence-based research to justify investment in future green infrastructure interventions.