Displacement and older people - The Case of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of 2011

The earthquake that occurred off the Sanriku coast of northern Japan on 11 March 2011 caused one of the most destructive tsunamis ever recorded. It took place in a country with the world’s highest proportion of older people: over 23% of the population is 65 years and older. The immense impact of the disaster on this generation is signified by the fact that 56% of those who lost their lives were aged 65 and over. Understanding the experiences of older people who survived is crucial for addressing the needs and capacities of older people in future emergencies – in Japan and elsewhere.

The Japanese Red Cross College of Nursing and HelpAge International therefore conducted this study of the impact of the disaster and the access to assistance for older people in two of the most severely affected prefectures of Iwate and Miyagi. The findings indicated that changes in environment and social activity often reduced the opportunities for human interaction, with important implications for psychological wellbeing and recovery. 

Opportunities for developing age inclusive disaster response and recovery activities are outlined in more detailed recommendations at the end of this report.