Physical and behavioural factors that influence evacuation times of elderly people: a systematic literature review
Year: 2024
Type: preprint
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Objective We conducted a systematic review to investigate the factors influencing the safe evacuation of elderly people. Background As populations age, the functional capability of building occupants to evacuate may be impacted as higher percentages of the population require additional assistance. Current fire engineering guidance and codes of practice are based on outdated literature. Method This review was conducted according to the PRISMA framework. The electronic databases Web of Science, APA PsycINFO, Embase, MEDLINE and IEEE Xplore were comprehensively searched between November 2023 and December 2023. Results We systematically identified 11 studies published between 1995 and 2021. Key findings are as follows: Pre-movement time: Influenced by physical abilities and staff responsiveness. Non-assisted elderly residents have quicker pre-movement times, and faster staff responses shorten pre-movement periods regardless of building structure. Movement speeds: Horizontal movement speeds for elderly range from 0.3 to 0.6 m/s; on stairs, 0.31 to 0.56 m/s for elderly and 0.96 to 1.13 m/s for younger people. Assisted or evacuation chair speeds decrease to 0.14 to 0.29 m/s. Key behaviours: Include seeking information, waiting for others, and collecting belongings, along with reliance on staff for guidance. Role of staff: Staff play a crucial role, especially for those with limitations. Outcomes can be enhanced by proper training, effective task assignment and prioritising residents by mobility. Conclusion The studies emphasise the importance of staff responsiveness and effective training in evacuating elderly residents. Application This review presents recent research findings on the evacuation of elderly populations, emphasising the necessity to update guidance.
Authors: Sarah Daniels, Bridie Bailey, Rosie Wainwright, Gary Daniels
Language: English
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4400642722