Social Isolation: A Hidden Threat Behind Rising Heat-Related Deaths Among Older Men

More than 2,000 older Swiss women achieved a landmark victory this spring when they sued their government over insufficient protections against extreme heat linked to climate change. The plaintiffs asserted that rising temperatures primarily endangered their health due to their age and gender. The European Court of Human Rights sided with the women, determining that the government failed to safeguard its citizens from climate impacts.

This case highlights a critical and often overlooked aspect of the climate crisis: its disproportionate effect on women, especially the elderly. A stark illustration emerged during the 2022 heat waves across Europe, where women accounted for 35,667 of over 61,000 heat-related fatalities, with older women suffering the most significant repercussions. Historical data, such as a 2003 heat event in France, revealed that mortality rates for women over 55 surpassed those of men by 15 percent when age was factored in. While data from the Global South presents inconsistencies, researchers generally agree that women face higher risks from heat-related deaths.

In stark contrast, the United States displays different mortality trends, with men experiencing higher death rates due to extreme heat. From 2004 to 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 10,527 heat-related deaths; 7,241 were men, indicating they died at more than double the rate of women. Updated data from the CDC is anticipated in the coming year.

Deepening this trend, Maricopa County in Arizona recorded that 75 percent of the 645 heat-related deaths last year were male, many linked to a vulnerable homeless population. Nevada’s Clark County and Oregon’s Multnomah County reported similar patterns, with men representing nearly three-quarters and 67 percent of heat-related deaths, respectively.

Research indicates that women exhibit lower physiological thresholds for heat tolerance. A recent study involving women aged 65 and older revealed they start to overheat at lower temperatures and humidity levels compared to their male counterparts. The research emphasized that middle-aged women share similar vulnerabilities to extreme heat as older men.

The reasons for these gender discrepancies in heat-related deaths may extend beyond physical health to social factors. Sociologist Eric Klinenberg, in his book “Heat Wave: A Social Autopsy of Disaster in Chicago,” highlighted social isolation among older men as a critical variable affecting mortality rates during heat events. His analysis revealed that men tend to have fewer social connections, contributing to their increased vulnerability.

Debra Umberson, a sociology professor, noted that social isolation often intensifies for men as they age. Her studies show that isolation starts in adolescence and worsens over time, affecting men more severely. In Maricopa County, this trend reflects in the data; among older residents who died from heat-related issues, men significantly outnumbered women.

Andrew Phelps, former director of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, recounted the high mortality rates during the Pacific Northwest’s 2021 heat wave. Contrary to expectations, many fatalities occurred among white males over 60 who lived alone. He theorized that many men might forego seeking help during health crises, hindered by societal norms surrounding masculinity.

Research corroborates this, indicating that men are less likely to consult doctors for health concerns or mental health issues. Klinenberg asserts that a culture of masculinity discourages men from seeking social support, leading to feelings of failure when they do. Furthermore, men may rely on female partners for health-related reminders and support, which can diminish when they lack such relationships.

In response to rising heat-related deaths among vulnerable populations, Maricopa County has initiated a program targeting elderly and disabled residents during heat waves. Caseworkers identified 93 individuals needing extra assistance, providing check-ins and support during conditions of extreme heat. However, gender biases surface in the response, as women tend to be more open to accepting help, while many men decline offered services.