Tropical Cyclones and the Mobility of Older Persons: Insights from Coastal Bangladesh

Abstract

Cyclones occur almost annually in Bangladesh, causing significant harm to people living on the coast. It is argued that less attention has been paid to older persons in the development and migration-related literature. In response, this study explores how cyclone impacts influence the decision-making capabilities of older persons with respect to mobility as an adaptation strategy. The study area is in Gabura (a coastal union) as a place of origin, but migrant participants for interviews were also selected from the coastal municipality of Shyamnagar and the district city of Satkhira, as well as the mega-capital city of Dhaka. The data was collected through qualitative research, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study results show that older adults face challenges during cyclones, which can lead to migration. Older persons face various economic, social, and cultural issues, including the loss of property and assets, disruption of social networks, and loss of cultural practices due to climate change-generated hazards. The results suggest that mobility to nearby towns or big cities is a common response of older persons to climate change. It is also found that such mobility decisions of older persons improved their resilience to cyclones. Overall, this study advances the knowledge concerning mobility among the elderly in the face of tropical cyclones and other coastal environmental stressors. The findings can be useful in developing policies and programmes that include older persons and address their specific needs and vulnerabilities in the context of climate change.