Organization

Since leading a Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) interdisciplinary humanities and social sciences project in 2009, I have focused on disaster preparedness for socially vulnerable populations, particularly older adults requiring care and persons with disabilities. My research explores underdeveloped areas within disaster gerontology—especially the intersection of disaster experiences and successful aging. In collaboration with Korean scholars, I have pursued joint studies on this topic since 2020. Additionally, research conducted in Mongolia revealed a strong link between disability, disaster vulnerability, and poverty, highlighting the urgency of addressing these interconnected issues. These findings have informed ongoing literature reviews and field investigations aimed at developing inclusive strategies for Japan, a super-aged and disaster-prone nation. My work seeks to advance understanding of how disasters impact aging and disability, and to promote frameworks that support resilience and equity for marginalized populations.

Reframing “Successful Aging” through the Lens of Disaster Gerontology:
Disaster gerontology, introduced at the Gerontological Society of America in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina, investigates the disproportionate impact of disasters on older adults, particularly those with disabilities. In super-aged, disaster-prone societies such as Japan, the intersection of aging and emergency management demands urgent attention. Older individuals frequently comprise the majority of disaster-related fatalities, underscoring systemic gaps in preparedness and response. This study examines decades of challenges in integrating gerontological insights into disaster planning. It critiques the prevailing bias toward “normalcy,” which marginalizes persons with disabilities during non-disaster periods and exacerbates their isolation during crises. As the number of elderly individuals with disabilities rises, inclusive frameworks that bridge social divides are essential. Addressing these vulnerabilities is not only a matter of equity but a prerequisite for effective disaster resilience in aging societies.

Disaster Response Strategies for Older Adults with Disabilities: Japan’s status as a super-aged, disaster-prone society demands urgent attention to the vulnerabilities of older adults with disabilities. Climate-related hazards disproportionately threaten their health and safety, yet current disaster policies remain narrowly focused on institutionalized care. Independently living, socially active individuals are often overlooked. This study explores models of self-help, mutual aid, and public support through interviews with older adults with disabilities. Findings reveal systemic exclusion from local disaster frameworks, placing both individuals and their families at elevated risk. With over 11 million persons with disabilities nationwide, the research identifies critical gaps across all disaster phases. It advocates for inclusive, typology-sensitive strategies to minimize risk and enhance resilience among older adults with disabilities—an essential step toward equitable disaster preparedness in Japan.