1. Rapid Needs Assessments for Older Adults in Disasters.
- Author
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Burnett, Jason, Dyer, Carmel B., and Pickins, Sabrina
- Subjects
- *
NEEDS assessment , *CRISIS management , *CERTIFICATES of need in health facilities , *ELDER care , *GERIATRICS , *ADULT care services , *NATURAL disasters , *EMERGENCY management - Abstract
The article focuses on the research conducted by Fernandez and colleague regarding the psychological, social effects and higher mortality rate experienced by older people during times of disaster in the U.S.. Results show that impaired physical mobility, diminished sensory awareness, preexisting health conditions and social and economic restraints increased the vulnerability of frail older people during calamities. It is suggested that authorities should have a pre-disaster and post-disaster planning to ensure the safety of vulnerable and frail elders. Factors to be considered include immediate medical care, physical and social needs and shelter settings.
- Published
- 2007