Beat the Heat: Impacts of Heat on Health in Boston and Strategies to Address Them

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how providing air conditioners and educational resources affects heat-related stress, mental health, and healthcare use among older adults living in high-risk neighborhoods without home cooling. This randomized stepped wedge trial focuses on adults aged 55 to 95 who have chronic health conditions or recent hospitalizations and may face material hardships. The study aims to understand how air conditioning impacts health and usage patterns during hot weather. Participants are randomly assigned to receive window-mounted air conditioning units and an electricity cost subsidy either in the first or second year. Both groups receive heat health education and cooling kits at baseline. The trial spans two warm seasons, comparing those with and without AC in the first summer, then evaluating the effect of electricity subsidies in the second year when all have AC units. Throughout the study, participants complete surveys assessing heat stress, mental health, and healthcare utilization. Environmental sensors continuously record indoor temperature and air quality, while AC use is tracked via monitoring devices. The primary outcome is self-reported health status measured by a modified Environmental Symptoms Questionnaire, supplemented by assessments of thermal comfort, mood, emergency visits, and hospitalizations. Data collection occurs before and after interventions each summer, supporting a comprehensive evaluation over approximately two years.

Beat the Heat Boston