[Maintaining mobility of older people in urban areas in the face of climate change : Empirical findings on perceived heat stress and potential adaptive behavior].

Urban areas face complex challenges, such as climate change, environmental stressors, urbanization and demographic change. Vulnerable individuals, including older people are particularly affected. In old age health risks increase during heat periods due to multiple burdens resulting from dynamic person-environment interactions. How differently older adults perceive extreme heat and the behavioral adaptations they make in response were investigated in a field study conducted in Stuttgart. The aim of the present work was to form segments using cluster analyses that clearly differed in terms of heat stress levels and independent daily living outside the home. The sample included 211 community dwelling individuals (57% female) aged 65-92 years. Data collection was conducted through personal, standardized interviews. Of the four clusters identified one exhibited an accumulation of vulnerability factors, manifesting in particularly high perception of heat stress, impaired independence in daily life and a greater reduction in outdoor activities during heat compared to the other clusters. While the latter could provide protection from heat-related effects, it also poses risks of supply shortages and reduced social participation during heatwaves. Such segmentation beyond chronological age highlights the need for targeted heat protection and prevention measures, which are addressed in municipal heat action plans. Although the development of such plans has already progressed in Germany, the proposed measures must be implemented on a broader and cross-sectoral basis to strengthen health equity for all.