Health needs of older adults after natural disasters: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Background: Older adults are disproportionately affected by natural disasters. The literature on the health needs of older adults after natural disasters is limited. Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the existing evidence on the health needs of older adults after disasters. This systematic review of the literature was conducted to provide an overview of what is known about the needs of older adults after natural disasters. Methods: An electronic search of the following databases was conducted: PubMed, Cochrane, ProQuest, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and HelpAge International. The final review included 27 articles that were analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify the health needs of older adults after natural disasters. Results: Limited and sparse literature exists pertaining to the health needs of older adults after natural disasters. In this study, six themes or features of health needs emerged: medical needs, psychosocial needs, assistance in activities of daily living, resources, informational needs, and protective needs. Furthermore, four categories including personal, organizational, socio-cultural, and disaster-related factors could affect the health needs of older adults after natural disasters. Conclusions: Planning for older adults with diverse and special needs in disasters is very important. Health care providers should consider the older adult’s health needs and capacities in the disaster recovery.