Impact of heat exposure on health outcomes among older adults in India: an analysis across ten states

This study investigates the impact of heat exposure on health outcomes among older adults in 10 Indian states, using data from the Longitudinal Aging Study of India (LASI-Wave I) and climate data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Propensity score matching and ordered probit models were employed to control for demographic factors and isolate the effects of heat exposure. Our results show a significant association between heat exposure and worsening self-reported health and mental health, including increased feeling of depression, fatigue, fear, and decreased life satisfaction. The analysis indicates that access to cooling devices mitigates adverse health effects in rural areas, while access to onsite water benefits urban residents. These findings underscore the critical role of housing and environment factors in moderating the health impacts of heat exposure and suggest targeted interventions to protect vulnerable populations.