02 May 2026 | The Daily Star Centre in Dhaka
Center for Participatory Research and Development- CPRD, together with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, successfully organized a groundbreaking national consultation workshop focusing on aging, climate change, and mental health in Bangladesh. This event marked the inaugural convening of the Weathering Age project being implemented by the SOAS, University of London, bringing together researchers, clinical practitioners, public health professionals, climate change professionals, NGO representatives, and policy actors from across Bangladesh to address the critical intersections of aging, climate change, and mental health.
Method and Purpose
Conducted in an interactive mode, the workshop primarily aimed at sharing findings from a systematic literature review on aging in Bangladesh—exploring perceptions of old age, care mechanisms, health and quality of life, and climate-aging interactions. Participants identified research and policy gaps, drawing on their field experience and institutional knowledge to highlight the most pressing issues for older adults facing climate stress. The workshop also initiated the development of the Climate Vulnerability Index for the Elderly (CVIE), aiming to anchor it in local expertise and ensure its relevance for communities and policymakers. The event concluded by fostering new partnerships and outlining future collaborations within the broader Weathering Age research programme.
Key Outcomes
Workshop participants discussed grassroots issues facing older people and the current status of formal and informal care mechanisms in the country. They also addressed the health and quality-of-life situation. The workshop found that policymakers, practitioners, and communities have a limited understanding of climate-aging interactions. Participants noted many misconceptions and overlooked issues regarding ageing, elderly people, age categories, and perspectives at both the institute and community levels. Advocacy points were identified during the workshop. Participants also noted research scopes and policy gaps based on their fieldwork and institutional knowledge. It was also noted that data in the sector are very limited for further engagement, research, and project development.
Way Forward
The consultation suggested various indicators, dimensions, and evidence forms needed for the ‘Climate Vulnerability Index for the Elderly’. This helps ensure local expertise, cultural relevance, and usefulness to communities and policymakers. Participants appreciated the continuation of such activities and studies and called for greater advocacy to improve policy implementation. They also supported improvements in mental and physical health care for elderly people in the country’s climate change context and encouraged partnerships for future collaboration among stakeholders.
