Social Isolation and Disaster Preparedness in Senior Adults

The vulnerability of seniors in an emergency is a national priority, but the general preparedness level of older adults to respond to disasters is uncertain, particularly in those individuals who may be socially isolated and lacking support mechanisms. The objective of this study was to query a sample of seniors across Ohio to determine their social isolation, and how other risk factors impact preparedness.

Methods: Senior adults in Ohio (n=1,496) participated in a preparedness survey. Questions included general readiness, knowledge of preparedness, plans in the event of an emergency, medical conditions and social isolation.

Results: Analysis of self-reported preparedness indicated that 534 participants (37%) reported low or modest self-preparedness for a disaster, and 978 participants (66%) reported modest or high social isolation levels. Gender (β= -5.81, p<.001), age (β= -1.65, p<0.10), race (β= 7.18, p<0.01), location (urban, suburban, rural) and social isolation (β= 1.67, p<0.09) were significantly predictive of preparedness level. Conclusion: Seniors lack many provisions considered necessary for home sheltering and sustainability during a disaster, and social isolation is directly correlated with senior preparedness levels. Future interventions should target social isolation and basic food, prescription, and medical preparedness needs of susceptible seniors.