Rural Older Adults in Disasters: A Study of Recovery From Hurricane Michael.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims for a greater understanding of how older adults (age 65 and older) in Jackson County, Florida, are prepared for and cope with the effects of a natural disaster. METHODS: A multidisciplinary, international research team developed a survey examining: (1) resources available to individuals aged 65+ in rural communities for preparing for a disaster; (2) challenges they face when experiencing a disaster; and (3) their physical, social, emotional, and financial needs when it strikes. The survey was administered with older adults (65+) in Jackson County, Florida, following Hurricane Michael in 2018. The descriptive, multivariate logistic, and linear regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between respondents' demographic information and needs, concerns, and consequences of disaster. RESULTS: Results indicated (n = 139) rural community-dwelling older adults rely on social support, community organizations, and trusted disaster relief agencies to prepare for and recover from disaster-related events. CONCLUSIONS: Such findings can be used to inform the development of new interventions, programs, policies, practices, and tools for emergency management and social service agencies to improve disaster preparedness and resiliency among older populations in rural communities.

Inmates' Self-Reported Physical and Mental Health Problems: A Comparison by Sex and Age.

The present study explored the impact of both age and sex on inmates' self-reported physical and mental health problems. The inmates were older adults (55 or older) and housed in one of four correctional institutions from a state located in the northeastern region of the United States. Overall, findings revealed female inmates more often reported currently taking prescribed medications for mental or emotional problems and previously having been diagnosed with mental health problems prior to incarceration. Also, comparing male and female inmates by age categories (59 and younger vs. 60 and older), the older group was more likely to report a variety of physical problems including arthritis, diabetes, and glaucoma. Research and correctional policy implications are discussed.