Introduction: Natural disasters pose significant challenges for vulnerable populations worldwide, particularly older persons residing in Latin America and the Caribbean. This region faces disproportionate exposure to natural hazards, including floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes, with older adults representing a rapidly growing segment of the population. Older adults present unique vulnerabilities due to physiological aging, chronic medical conditions, increased mobility, and socio-economic constraints. These factors place them at increased risk of adverse outcomes during and after disasters. Despite recommendations from international organizations, gaps remain in research and policy planning to safeguard this vulnerable demographic. Methods: A scoping review was conducted to synthesize the available literature on the resilience of older persons following natural disasters in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA- ScR) guidelines were followed. Comprehensive searches were conducted in major databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL. After deduplication and screening, 11 articles were included for data abstraction. Thematic analysis was performed using Whittemore and Knafl’s integrative framework. Results: Older persons were found to face compounded vulnerabilities during disasters, with critical disruptions in healthcare access, utility services, and social support networks. Psychological impacts such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD were common, particularly in those with prior dependence or social isolation. Despite these challenges, some older persons showcased high levels of resilience. However, advanced age was generally associated with decreased resilience, especially in economically disadvantaged populations. Policy analysis revealed that while some guidelines exist, consistent national-level implementation in Latin America and the Caribbean remains insufficient. Conclusion: This review highlights the urgent need for evidence-based disaster preparedness and recovery strategies tailored to older adults in Latin America and the Caribbean. Multi-sectoral collaboration among governments, health agencies, and local communities is essential to completing this process. Strengthening social support systems, integrating older persons’ voices into planning, and prioritizing targeted research can contribute to more resilient, inclusive disaster management in the region.
Ayanna et al. (Sun,) studied this question.