Spatial Needs for Healthcare Access During Disasters in Informal Settings for Older Adults With Disabilities

Abstract

Older adults with disabilities and their caregivers require certain spatial conditions that allow them to carry out protective actions and healthcare access during disasters. This study aims to identify these spatial needs in the first few hours of an emergency within informal settings. For this purpose, a case study methodology with several phases was applied. The first phase focused on case definition through a literature review and case studies selection in the Metropolitan District of Quito-Ecuador. Phase two centered on spatial audits and collecting quotes and experiences from older adults with disabilities and their caregivers, conducted through focus groups. The third phase analyzed quantitative and qualitative data, generating three thematic categories: autonomous, support-driven, and institutional response access needs to healthcare. Findings highlight that special attention should be paid to the relationship between spatial conditions and individual or group behaviors during disasters, as these can exacerbate vulnerable outcomes for older adults.