Are the elderly more vulnerable to psychological impact of natural disaster? A population-based survey of adult survivors of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake

Abstract

BackgroundThe association between ages and psychological impact of natural disasters has not been well characterized. A population-based study was conducted 15 months after the 2008 Sichuan earthquake to assess whether elderly survivors were more likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and general psychiatric morbidity.MethodsA population-based survey of 327 survivors (152 elders, 175 younger adults) was conducted in severely affected areas by the earthquake, using a multi-stage systematic sampling design.ResultsCompared with the younger adult survivors, the elderly were more likely to have symptoms of PTSD (22.5% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.001) and general psychiatric morbidity (42.0% vs. 25.4%, p = 0.003). Risk factors, such as being elderly, having been in serious danger, having lost family members, and having felt guilt concerning one's death or injury were significantly associated with developing PTSD; being elderly, having family members or friends seriously injured, and having felt guilt concerning one's death or injury were significantly associated with developing general psychiatric morbidity. Utilization of mental health services is strongly associated with the decreased risk for developing both of the symptoms.ConclusionCompared with the younger adults, the elderly survivors were more likely to develop PTSD and general psychiatric morbidity. More mental health services should be distributed to the elderly and groups at particular risk, to ensure their smooth mental health reconstruction after the earthquake.

The prevalence and risk factors for psychological distress in older men and women affected by the Wenchuan, China earthquake

“…Known risk factors for psychological distress in older survivors include demographic characteristics such as sex, age, educational level and employment status, as well as disasterexposed variables such as bereavement, loss of livelihood and feeling fear during disasters [10]. Social network disruption also emerged as a significant risk factor for psychiatric disorder in affected populations [11].…”

A Comparison of pharmacologic and mechanical prophylaxis on the prevention of deep vein thrombosis in spinal cord injury

“…They can also help identify local risks, hazards, and disaster risk-reduction strategies (34,47,48). 6 Trauma Mon. 2018; 23(4):e60622.…”

“…Some factors such as reduced adaptability to heat, cold, sunlight, and humidity (5), social and economic limitations (6), reduced motor abilities, age-related declines in visual and auditory perception (7), and different reactions to dangers may increase the vulnerability of older adults to disasters. Moreover, some of the older adults need more time to process information and have delayed physical reactions (8).…”

“…Factors such as the presence or absence of chronic diseases, general health status, age, gender, race, marital status, and education can affect health needs (2,6,29,37,41). In addition, biography and identity, past experiences, adaptation strategies, the rate of independence, socioeconomic status, and life skills also included in personal factors (8,29,37,39,42).…”

Mental Health Consequences of Disaster Exposure in Older Adults

“…In contrast, studies examining late-life trauma exposure have primarily focused on natural disasters. In a population-based survey [ 44 ] of older vs. younger survivors of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, elderly survivors were more likely than younger survivors to develop PTSD (22.5 % vs. 8 %). In this study, risk factors for PTSD included age (elderly), loss of family members, exposure to serious danger, and guilt concerning death or injury.…”