Files
Abstract
Did place attachment have an impact on the mobility decisions of older adults post-Hurricane Katrina? This exploratory study used data from the American Community Survey (ACS) to examine why older adults chose either to stay in New Orleans and remain in their homes; or why they returned back to their homes shortly after Hurricane Katrina(one year later) by looking at multiple contributing factors associated with place attachment.The empirical model used for analysis looked at factors related to economic security and social influences attributed to place attachment, while controlling for a number of demographic and socioeconomic variables. The results showed that while both age and having grandchildren decreased the likelihood of older adults to either remain in their homes, or return shortly after Hurricane Katrina, there are still policy implications that are important for older adults wanting to age in place.