Wildfires are a growing issue in Canada, especially in British Columbia, where increasing drought is expected to intensify the number of wildfires. Rural older adults with dementia may be highly vulnerable during wildfires due to stress, limited public transportation, and cognitive challenges. However, there is little research that examines wildfire preparedness and dementia. Guided by lived experience, this research program aims to examine wildfire awareness, needs, and actions to support rural older adults with dementia and family care partners in interior British Columbia.
This research program will include three studies that collectively work to improve the wildfire supports of rural people with dementia. Drawing on group discussions and interviews, the findings will provide important information to enhance wildfire preparedness at the individual, community, and policy levels. The findings will be shared using different activities such as journal articles, reports, and community workshops.