Vulnerable aging in flooded households and adaptation to climate change in cities in Latin America: the case of Monterrey

Abstract

There is a limited understanding of the challenge of an aging population in Latin America to the dangers of climate change. The research analyzes the factors that determine the vulnerability of the elderly population in households affected by recurrent floods in the city of Monterrey (Mexico) and its adaptability to hazards. The methodology is based on an analysis of survey data and the use of GIS at neighborhood. The results indicate that the vulnerability of aging in place (housing and neighborhood) affected by recurrent floods is explained by the factors, environmental pressure, functional competence, advanced aging, exclusion social and capacity for risk management. The distribution of vulnerable elderly population shows a greater focus on neighborhoods demographically aging city center and suburban neighborhoods highly marginalized of Monterrey. It is concluded that the deficiencies in risk management and limited adaptability of the elderly to recurrent floods favors their vulnerability to climate change