The summer of 2026 brought attention to the growing risks faced by elderly individuals during extreme heat. A heatwave from June 17 to July 2 resulted in 5,764 excess deaths, with two-thirds of these deaths occurring among people aged 75 and older, according to Santé Publique France. When combined with 300 additional deaths from a heatwave earlier in the year, from May 24 to May 28, the total number of deaths linked to high temperatures in 2026 reached 7,300. This highlights the increasing threat of heat-related health risks for the aging population. The Synerpa, a French federation focused on the accommodation, assistance, and support of the elderly, emphasizes that an individual's living conditions and whether they have regular support are critical during extreme weather. At home, the presence of professional caregivers can help monitor hydration levels, detect dangerously high indoor temperatures, identify health declines, and raise alarms when needed. These measures are especially vital in preventing severe health issues during heatwaves. During the recent heatwaves, 83% of Synerpa members reported having to mobilize their teams beyond normal operations. Of those who detailed their efforts, 63% used overtime hours, 54% hired additional staff or temporary workers for heatwave response, and 66% increased the involvement of management. Synerpa also noted solidarity efforts during wildfires in Gironde, Landes, and Var, where affiliated facilities coordinated with health and local authorities to accommodate evacuated residents, provide temporary housing, and assist with transportation. While the Synerpa acknowledges the state's emergency response during crises, it argues that adapting to climate change for the elderly cannot rely solely on exceptional measures during emergencies. Long-term solutions are needed, including investments in housing, medical and social facilities, home services, and the human resources required for elderly care. This summer, 64% of Synerpa members reported an increase in requests for care or admission to facilities, reflecting the growing need for support services. Looking ahead, France is expected to see a significant rise in its elderly population, with 685,000 more people aged 75 to 84 and 339,000 more over 85 between 2027 and 2032. At the same time, the frequency of extreme weather events is expected to increase, requiring new investments in infrastructure and support systems. The Synerpa calls for a national strategy on aging that integrates both demographic and climate challenges, along with a multi-year budget law that addresses these needs. Jean-Christophe Amarantinis, president of the Synerpa, summarized the summer's events by saying that it revealed both the extreme vulnerability of the elderly to weather events and the remarkable ability of professionals to respond. However, he emphasized the need for long-term, sustainable actions to protect the elderly from the effects of climate change, rather than relying solely on emergency responses. Established in June 2001, the Synerpa is the first French federation dedicated to elderly care and support. It includes over 3,500 members, such as 2,000 residential care facilities, 300 intermediate housing units, and 1,200 home care agencies, providing assistance to more than 300,000 individuals and employing 170,000 staff. Since 2019, the National Council of Thermal Establishments, representing 110 facilities, has also been affiliated with the Synerpa.