Mobility and Loneliness Factors in Earthquake Preparedness of Japanese Older Adults

Mihoka Fukurai, & Lisa Grant Ludwig

Submitted September 7, 2025, SCEC Contribution #14928, 2025 SCEC Annual Meeting Poster #TBD

Japan’s rapidly aging population and high seismic risk highlight the need for inclusive disaster preparedness strategies. Using data from 1,600 community-dwelling adults aged 55+ in four high-risk prefectures (Tokyo, Kanagawa, Kochi, Wakayama), this study examined the roles of walking disability, loneliness, and contextual factors in earthquake preparedness. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, multivariable regression, and mediation modeling, found no significant link between walking difficulty and either risk perception or the number of preparedness actions taken. In contrast, loneliness had a significant negative direct effect on preparedness but also a small positive indirect effect through increased risk perception, which modestly promoted protective actions. Overall, the negative impact of loneliness outweighed its indirect benefit. Preparedness was more strongly associated with living in multi-person households and home ownership.

An interesting finding of this population was that risk perception was significantly correlated with preparedness (p < .001) but did not mediate the disability–preparedness relationship. Japan’s integrated disaster risk reduction systems, including accessible infrastructure, involving older adults and people with disabilities in the planning process, and improved communication efforts may help reduce disparities often seen in disaster preparedness. Findings illuminate the complex effects of psychosocial and infrastructural factors in readiness, suggesting that interventions should target both emotional isolation and equitable access to preparedness resources. This work informs policy and design strategies for fostering resilience among older adults and mobility- limited populations in high-risk contexts, while recognizing cultural considerations in adapting such approaches internationally.

Key Words
Preparedness, earthquakes, older adults, risk perception

Citation
Fukurai, M., & Grant Ludwig, L. (2025, 09). Mobility and Loneliness Factors in Earthquake Preparedness of Japanese Older Adults. Poster Presentation at 2025 SCEC Annual Meeting.

Related Projects & Working Groups
Applied Science Implementation (ASI)