A Comprehensive Approach to Enhance Older Adults鈥� Preparedness for Extreme Heat (COPE)

Extreme heat poses growing risks for older adults, whose health and temperature regulation can be affected by age and chronic conditions. The Comprehensive Approach to Enhance Older Adults鈥� Preparedness for Extreme Heat (COPE) study combines the lived experiences with scientific knowledge to co-create practical strategies for heat resilience鈥攅mpowering older adults to better prepare for a changing climate.

Our Research

This project addresses the vulnerability of older adults to extreme heat by integrating individual health-protective behaviours and community-based programs. It aims to create comprehensive adaptation plans with older adults and community partners in several countries, using a participatory approach.

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Outreach & Resources

We collect, update, and share resources on COPE, focusing on climate change, extreme heat, and older adults. Our collection includes academic outputs, evidence-based strategies, practical guides, and research insights to enhance awareness, preparedness, and resilience. Read more about our knowledge products.

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News & Announcements

COPE Engage launches data collection

August 07, 2025

COPE Engage is conducting focus group sessions with older adults living in affordable rental housing in Metro Vancouver. The sessions cover questions related to concerns and risk perceptions about heat events, public awareness around this issue and resource they know about or access.
SFU Researchers Awarded $20K grant to Promote Heat Resilience Through the Arts

July 22, 2025

This new initiative brings together Drs. Pauly and Mahmood with collaborators Dr. Nancy Olewiler, Dr. Jessica Pilarczyk, and Dr. Julia Henderson to explore how arts-based group programming can promote climate preparedness, social connection, and psychological well-being among older adults.
Aryana Mohammed Receives $5,000 Pollinator Award!

July 22, 2025

This competitive award recognizes graduate students who play a key role in advancing community-centred, interdisciplinary climate research at SFU.

Research Sponsors

The Comprehensive Approach to Enhance Older Adults鈥� Preparedness for Extreme Heat (COPE) study draws upon research supported by the Government of Canada鈥檚 New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF).

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