Disaster-related information support systems for families of older adults with special healthcare needs: A scoping review

Abstract

Based on the theory of structural vulnerability, this study systematically examines the characteristics and underlying mechanisms shaping information needs among families of older adults with special healthcare needs in disaster contexts, providing a theoretical foundation for developing a family-system collaborative disaster information support system. In this scoping review, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, VIP Database, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database from inception to December 31, 2025. A total of 22 studies were included. The findings suggest that the information needs in this population are highly heterogeneous, particularly among families managing cognitive impairments and chronic diseases. These families not only bear the responsibility of information transmission but also act as intermediaries responsible for translating, interpreting, and filtering information. However, existing disaster information support systems insufficiently meet their needs, particularly regarding information accessibility and comprehensibility, which presents significant gaps. Additionally, family caregivers face a disparity between responsibility and capacity, lacking effective support tools, potentially contributing to decision fatigue and information overload. Overall, the study suggests that the information needs of these families may arise from structural mechanisms embedded within disaster response systems. Future disaster information support strategies should move beyond the simple “family-centered” approach to a family-system synergy model. Such an approach should incorporate decision-support toolkits and parallel communication channels while also providing structured decision support and risk-sharing mechanisms. This shift would transform family caregivers from unsupported gap-fillers into active yet supported decision participants, thereby enhancing both disaster response capacity and equity for this vulnerable population.