Evacuation and Health Outcomes for Assisted Living Residents After Hurricane Irma
Author Information
Author(s): Hua Cassandra, Patel Sweta, Thomas Kali, Jester Dylan, Peterson Lindsay, Dobbs Debra, Andel Ross, Dosa David
Hypothesis
The study examines the relationship between evacuation and healthcare outcomes among assisted living residents during Hurricane Irma.
Conclusion
Evacuation was associated with increased emergency department visits and nursing home visits among assisted living residents after Hurricane Irma.
Supporting Evidence
- Of 25,130 Florida AL residents, 3,402 evacuated and 21,728 did not.
- Evacuation was linked to a 16% increase in emergency department visits.
- Evacuation was linked to a 51% increase in nursing home visits.
- Hospitalization and mortality rates did not significantly differ by evacuation status.
Takeaway
When older people living in assisted living homes had to leave during a hurricane, they ended up going to the hospital more often than those who stayed put.
Methodology
This retrospective cohort study used propensity score matching and multilevel logistic regression models to analyze health outcomes based on evacuation status.
Limitations
The study may not account for all variables affecting health outcomes and is limited to a specific geographic area.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Florida assisted living residents aged 65 and older, enrolled in Medicare Fee-For-Service.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.037
Confidence Interval
1.01-1.33; 1.14-2.00
Statistical Significance
p=0.037
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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