The Role of Micro-Communities in Post-Disaster Psychological Well-Being of Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Older adults are highly vulnerable to adverse psychological outcomes following large-scale disasters. Social micro-communities are often assumed to play a protective role in post-disaster recovery. This study examined the association between perceived micro-community support and psychological outcomes among older adults after the 2023 earthquakes in Malatya, Türkiye. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 287 community-dwelling adults aged 60 years and older from the Battalgazi and Yesilyurt districts. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a sociodemographic form, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Non-parametric statistical analyses were applied. Results: Younger participants reported significantly higher perceived social support and psychological well-being (p < 0.05). Male and married participants demonstrated greater life satisfaction (p < 0.05). Educational status was significantly associated with family support and total perceived social support (p < 0.05). Although most participants perceived micro-communities as important, perceived importance was not significantly associated with psychological well-being or life satisfaction. Health problems and economic hardship were the most common post-disaster stressors. Conclusions: Informal social support alone may be insufficient to promote psychological recovery among disaster-affected older adults. Targeted community-based interventions addressing health and socioeconomic needs are required.