Navigating the storm: Insights for emergency planning for community-dwelling older adults—A report from focus groups with older adults and informal caregivers

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Abstract
Older adults often manage multiple chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, which increases their vulnerability during emergencies. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic underscored how vulnerable older adults, especially those with multiple chronic conditions, are to social, physical, psychological, spiritual, and economic hardships in times of crisis since preparing for and responding to disaster events can be particularly challenging for these individuals. This qualitative study examined emergency experiences and preparedness of 37 older adults and informal caregivers living in a large metropolitan area. Thematic analysis of focus group transcripts revealed shared barriers to emergency planning, such as knowledge gaps, financial and physical limitations, distrust in authorities, digital divides, dismissive interactions, and isolation. Insights from the focus groups informed the creation of targeted, actionable strategies to enhance emergency planning efforts inclusive of older adults. Integrating research-informed emergency protocols is essential to mitigate adverse outcomes and enhance older adults’ resilience and well-being during crises.

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