Unveiling the Impact of Compound Disasters on Older Population’s Mortality: A Two-Decade Analysis

The impacts of compound disasters on the older population’s mortality caused by heart diseases and strokes over the past two decades have been a significant concern. Research has shown that hurricanes and extreme heat events can have a profound effect on the mortality rates among older adults, especially when these disasters occur simultaneously or in a compound manner.

A study conducted using Poisson regression analysis examined the mortality rates among older populations in Florida over a period of two decades. The research considered different occurrences of hurricanes and extreme heat, both as single events and as compound disasters. The analysis revealed that the mortality rates were significantly influenced by the occurrence of these disasters, with varying intensities depending on the type of event.

Hurricanes were found to induce electricity disturbances that had a significant impact on mortality rates, especially when occurring in multiple events. Similarly, extreme heat events were associated with increased mortality rates, particularly when they occurred in conjunction with other disasters. The study also highlighted the influence of population demographics, such as the proportion of smokers, alcohol consumers, and obese individuals, on mortality rates during weather extremes.

Looking ahead to future scenarios in 2050, 2070, and 2100, the research projected the anticipated mortality rates among older populations based on different weather extreme events and climate change trajectories. The findings suggested that the co-occurrence of hurricanes and extreme heat could lead to significantly higher mortality rates compared to other weather events, especially in counties with larger populations of older adults.

Furthermore, the study compared the effects of weather extreme events under different climate change scenarios, indicating that more severe mortality rates were expected under high emission levels compared to sustainable pathways. The findings underscored the importance of robust planning and mitigation strategies to address the potential impacts of compound disasters on older populations’ health.

In conclusion, the research highlights the complex interactions between compound disasters, climate change, and population demographics in influencing mortality rates among older adults. By understanding these dynamics and anticipating future scenarios, policymakers and public health officials can better prepare for and mitigate the health risks faced by older populations during extreme weather events.