Title: Disaster planning and response: considering the needs of the frail elderly

Authors: Susan M. Smith, Mary Jane Tremethick, Peggy Johnson, June Gorski

Addresses: Safety and Public Health, UT Safety Center, University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996-2710, USA. ' Northern Michigan University, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., PEIF 201, Marquette, MI 49855, USA. ' UT Safety Center, University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996-2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA

Abstract: The world|s population is expanding with more individuals living beyond their sixth decade of life. These changing demographics present a challenge for emergency management professionals. While there is diversity among older adults worldwide, unique common factors influence the ability of the frail elderly to maintain their health and well-being when faced with a disaster. Numerous factors need to be considered when planning for emergency preparedness and the response needs of the frail elderly. This paper will identify some of the common challenges that emergency management professionals face in planning to meet the needs of the frail elderly during and after disasters. The strategies employed to minimise the impact of a disaster on this vulnerable group will also be discussed.

Keywords: frail elderly; disaster response; emergency preparedness; disaster planning; natural disasters; emergency management; vulnerable groups.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2009.025170

International Journal of Emergency Management, 2009 Vol.6 No.1, pp.1 - 13

Published online: 14 May 2009 *

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