Challenges Faced and Support Received: Older Adults' Perceptions of Hurricane Sandy

Individuals exposed to natural disasters are at risk for negative physical and psychological outcomes. Older adults may be particularly vulnerable; however, social support can act as a resource to help individuals respond to severe stressors. This study explored the challenges older people faced bef...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Disaster medicine and public health preparedness 2017-02, Vol.11 (1), p.39-47
Main Authors: Heid, Allison R, Schug, Seran, Cartwright, Francine P, Pruchno, Rachel
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Age
Aged
Aging
Community involvement
Cyclonic Storms
Disaster Victims - psychology
Disasters
Displaced persons
Earthquakes
Emergency preparedness
Female
Humans
Hurricanes
Male
Middle Aged
Natural disasters
Neighborhoods
New Jersey
Older people
Perception
Public health
Qualitative Research
Social capital
Social networks
Social Support
Social Welfare
Surveys and Questionnaires
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Summary:Individuals exposed to natural disasters are at risk for negative physical and psychological outcomes. Older adults may be particularly vulnerable; however, social support can act as a resource to help individuals respond to severe stressors. This study explored the challenges older people faced before, during, and after Hurricane Sandy in October 2012 and the people they turned to for support. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 older adults in New Jersey drawn from the ORANJ BOWL (Ongoing Research on Aging in New Jersey - Bettering Opportunities for Wellness in Life) research panel, who experienced high levels of primary home damage during Hurricane Sandy. Content analysis of interview transcripts classified older adults' perceptions on how they "made it" through-the challenges they faced and the support they received. The findings suggested that older adults experienced emotional, instrumental, social, and financial challenges before, during, and after the storm. However, by relying on family and friends, as well as neighbors and community networks, older people were able to respond to stressors. Our findings carry implications for ensuring that older adults are connected to social networks before, during, and after disasters. The role of neighbors is particularly important when disasters strike. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:39-47).
ISSN:1935-7893
1938-744X
DOI:10.1017/dmp.2016.133