Post-Disaster Inequality Factors on Depression and Anxiety among Elderly Victims in South Korea

The effects of disasters on individuals’ mental health differ by their sociodemographic and economic status. This study aims to identify how various determinants of post-disaster inequalities influence the elderly’s mental health such as depression and anxiety. This study utilized 666 seniors aged 65 or older among a total sample of 1,659 included in the 2017 survey data collected by the National Disaster Management Research Institute. The results from multiple regression analysis showed that female, older, and lower-income individuals experienced a higher level of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, when receiving adequate economic support and psychological counseling and having more social participation, they were less likely to be depressed and anxious after disasters. To improve mental health of elderly disaster victims, it is important to provide appropriate psychological counseling services as well as economic support. In addition, social capital of elderly victims should be enhanced through encouraging social participation and reducing conflict experiences.