Factors and processes in the pre-disaster context that shape the resilience of older women in poverty

Purpose: To explore how key factors and processes, in the pre-disaster context (specifically in the mitigation phase), shape the disaster resilience of older women who are widowed, head of household, and living in poverty in the Philippines. Design: and Methods: A qualitative case study design was used. Multiple data collection methods included photography/videography, semi-structured interviews, observation, and document review. Thematic analysis was the analytical method employed. Results: The older women constructed that their capacity to build back better after a disaster were related to eight factors and processes, in the pre-disaster context: employment/livelihood(s), land tenure, housing, kinship relationships, healthcare disparities, spirituality/religiosity, gendered roles, norms, and stereotypes regarding older women, and their independence and dignity. Implications: The main finding in the study is that employment/livelihoods play a pre-eminent role. The findings suggest that: i) research, policy and practice should focus on resilience with the “forgotten workforce,” ii) resilience-building interventions require a holistic practice model, and iii) such efforts should be developed in ways that both address the collective situation of older persons, and remain flexible to adapt to particular situations.