Older Adults, Loneliness, and Earthquake Disaster Preparedness in Japan

This study explores how loneliness affects earthquake risk perception and preparedness behaviors among older adults in Japan. Aging is often accompanied by increased vulnerability to natural disasters, and loneliness is hypothesized to compromise effective preparedness. Using the Japanese Older Adult Preparedness Model (JOAPM), which integrates the Protective Action Decision Model (PADM) and cultural context, we examine how loneliness influences both perceived earthquake risk and protective behaviors.

An online survey conducted in April 2024 gathered responses from adults aged 55 and older across 4 earthquake-prone Japanese prefectures. Measures included demographics, disaster experience, loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale), risk perception, and preparedness actions such as household adjustments. Regression and mediation analyses assessed the direct and indirect effects of loneliness on preparedness.

Findings show that loneliness has a significant negative direct effect on disaster preparedness. However, it also slightly increases risk perception, which in turn has a positive relationship with preparedness behaviors, suggesting a modest indirect pathway. Overall, the direct negative effect of loneliness outweighs the indirect benefit.

The results highlight the complex role of psychosocial factors in disaster readiness, suggesting that interventions should address information dissemination, self-efficacy, and the emotional isolation experienced by older adults in high-risk areas.