Climate change is currently one of the top issues impacting how seniors plan their retirement years. Today, older adults face risks from extreme weather changes such as record-breaking rainfall, higher temperatures and drought.
While you might not be able to stop wildfires and flooding from happening, you can take action to preserve your or your family member’s health. Knowing how climate change impacts older adults makes it possible to create a senior living community that is prepared for the future, such as Horizon House.
Understanding Why Seniors Are Vulnerable to Climate Change
Climate change presents significant challenges for everyone, but older adults are particularly vulnerable. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, seniors face increased risks due to age-related health conditions, mobility limitations and sensory impairments.
Conditions such as heart disease, respiratory issues and reduced mobility make it harder for older adults to respond to emergencies caused by natural disasters like heat waves, wildfires and floods. Additionally, sensory challenges, such as difficulty in detecting dangerous environmental cues like smoke or heat, can further exacerbate the risks seniors face during such events.
The Benefits of Living in a Senior Living Community
Living in a community designed with these challenges in mind is crucial. Located in the heart of Seattle, Horizon House is committed to providing a safe, supportive and sustainable environment for its residents. The West Tower, a highly anticipated expansion, will feature state-of-the-art design that not only enhances the quality of life for older adults but also embraces environmentally friendly practices. With sustainable building materials, energy-efficient systems and green spaces, the West Tower will be more than just a place to live — it will be a proactive solution to the growing concerns of climate change.
The West Tower is designed with ambitious sustainability goals to ensure a minimal environmental impact. The building will aim to reduce water consumption by 30% through the use of high-efficiency fixtures and appliances, and it plans to cut irrigation water use by 50%. In terms of energy, the West Tower is committed to eliminating fossil fuel use within its HVAC system and reducing overall energy consumption by 20%. Additionally, the construction process will be focused on minimizing waste by utilizing sustainable materials and recycling efforts.
These goals are all part of Horizon House’s dedication to achieving LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which underscores the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship, reducing its carbon footprint and fostering a sustainable community.
By choosing to become a Reservation Depositor for the West Tower, you can enjoy the peace of mind in knowing that you are part of a community which prioritizes residents’ well-being and the environment. The West Tower’s sustainable design ensures that residents are not only protected from the immediate impacts of climate change but are also contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.
To learn more about the expansion or to become a Reservation Depositor, call us at 206-429-4353 or fill out the form below.