Nurses in Communities Preparedness: Japan’s Nursing Role in Disaster-Ready Communities

This webinar we welcome Dr Kako Mayumi from Hiroshima University. In 2023, the population aged more than 65 years old counted 29.1% in Japan. The number of people living with illnesses or disabilities in local communities is increasing. This population is expected to increase further in the next 30 years. Currently the transition and expansion of home care delivery service is rapidly progressing and nursing care service is one of them. In Japan, this situation is compounded by the fact that the country is prone to natural disasters. In addition to hospitals, how should people who require health management or disease management in local communities respond during disasters? Nursing professionals have historically been by the side of those who need care and treatment. It is no exaggeration to say that nursing professionals are also by the side of those who need care in local communities. Starting in the 2024 fiscal year, aged care facilities including home visit nursing services have been required to establish business continuity plans (BCPs). Developing disaster preparedness plans is essential for maintaining business operations and, ultimately, for continuing to provide care to those who need it. In this presentation, based on survey results, I would like to discuss how nursing professionals should approach disaster preparedness in their communities moving forward, along with considerations for mutual learning between Japan and Australia. Key Learning Objectives