Older adults’ preferences and behaviour during warm weather and heatwaves in the urban environment: A case study in southwestern Sweden

In the face of a warming climate and an ageing population, developing age-friendly urban areas is increasingly important. This study investigates the impact of the urban environment and socio-demographic factors on older adults’ perceptions of indoor heat and outdoor activity during warm summers and heatwaves. The study takes a novel approach, incorporating survey data from older adults (age 64–92, n = 348) living in southwestern Sweden, with data on tree canopy coverage, building volume, and distance to water from geographical information systems (GIS). We further examine older adults’ preferences for different types of urban environments during heatwaves and desirable environmental features during warm days. Results show that older adults living in areas with higher tree canopy coverage, close to parks, or with access to summer residences are less bothered by indoor heat during warm weather. Those living in urban areas with higher tree coverage and those having acess to a summer residences are less likely to avoid outdoor activity during heatwaves. Shade is the most desirable feature during warm days, with a majority seeking it in green areas. These findings highlight the importance of urban greenery and proximity to parks in ensuring outdoor activity, health, and well-being among older adults during warm summers and heatwaves. • Survey and GIS analysis exploring the preferences of older adults during heatwaves. • Living in areas with high tree canopy fraction led to lower indoor heat perception. • Higher tree canopy fraction also led to less likelihood to avoid outdoor activity. • Staying in summer residence led to less indoor heat perception and more time spent outdoors. • Shade was the most desired outdoor feature during warm weather and heatwaves.