The moderating effect of community interaction on individual well-being during hot days

Abstract

Environmental issues due to global climate change have important impacts on individual well-being. For example, the elderly and those who live in disadvantaged communities are more likely to be vulnerable in hot days. Exposure to heat and the associated pollutants increases their risk of illness. Previous studies have demonstrated an association between demographic and social-psychological characteristics with individual well-being. However, the moderating effect of community factors in the relationship between the impact of high temperatures and individual well-being has not yet been fully examined. This chapter aims to explore the moderating effect of community attachment on individual well-being during hot days. Data are drawn from a large-scale survey collected in 2013 using face-to-face interviews with a representative sample of Taiwanese adults aged 18 or older. Individual well-being is measured through a five-item scale to indicate self-reported physical and mental conditions. Demographic characteristics and variables of cognitive evaluation and conditions associated with health are found to have significant effects on well-being. In addition, the moderating effect of community interaction on individual well-being during hot days is confirmed. The findings of this chapter are expected to contribute to reducing the impact of high temperatures on those with a high risk of vulnerability.