The Elderly in the Aftermath of a Disaster

Abstract

Survey data obtained from a sample of elderly flood victims of Hurricane Agnes, one year after impact, indicate their perceived need for “hard” services such as housing, increased income, and transportation. In general, this sample believed that agency response was effective. Implications for normal circumstances center on the stigma that seems to hold for services proffered by Public Assistance and mental health agencies. Another finding suggests the need for greater emphasis on supportive services that extend life-space beyond the home environment.