ABSTRACT

Anecdotally, older people are considered particularly vulnerable in emergency events, from the preparation phase through the response phase and into the recovery phase. However, little research has been undertaken in this area. 1 Much of the research that has been undertaken provides conflicting information. When carrying out an extensive literature review to identify the vulnerabilities of older people to disasters, Fernandez et al. found that “[t]he data are contradictory as to whether the elderly groups are more vulnerable than are other age-defined population groups.” 2

In addition, it is not advancing age alone that makes people vulnerable; vulnerabilities are generally due to the issues associated with advancing age, such as “impaired physical mobility, diminished sensory awareness, pre-existing health conditions and social and economic constraints.” 3 This may be true, but these issues are not specifi c to older people and may affect people of all age groups at some stage in their lives.