Aliyah Evans
Research Mentor(s): Megan Czerwinski
Mentor Department: University of Michigan School of Nursing
Authors: Megan Czerwinski, Caroline Beckman, Aliyah Evans, Patricia Li, Cassia Rubio-Turtle, Alexandra Paige Fischer, Sue Anne Bell
Session: Session 2 (10:00am – 10:50am)
Presentation Type: Poster 13
Abstract
Background Wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity, leading to smoke exposure. Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can enter the bloodstream and exacerbate respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological conditions. PM2.5 exposure is linked to over 650,000 global premature deaths annually. Older adults in long-term care (LTC) facilities are particularly vulnerable due to chronic conditions and possible prolonged exposure to compromised indoor air. While air filtration and monitoring systems help reduce PM2.5 intrusion, little is known about how these facilities maintain clean indoor air during smoke events. Objective This study evaluates wildfire smoke risk perception and preparedness in LTC facilities, focusing on indoor air quality management and staff engagement in emergency planning. Methods Starting in February 2025, phone surveys via Zoom Phone were conducted with 322 LTC facilities in the Northwest U.S., a wildfire-prone region. These facilities were identified through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) database. Results 322 LTC facilities were identified. About half of the responding facilities reported experiencing at least one wildfire smoke event since 2017. Most had preparedness plans, including staff training, smoke drills, restricting outdoor activities, and sealing windows and doors. However, few used indoor air quality monitors, relying instead on external sources like weather applications, town websites and government alerts. Data collection is ongoing. Conclusions Many LTC facilities lack indoor air quality monitoring despite wildfire preparedness efforts. A comprehensive approach, including accurate monitoring, is crucial to protecting vulnerable residents. This research will provide policymakers and healthcare administrators with insights to enhance emergency planning, improve compliance, and reduce wildfire smoke risks for older adults. By focusing on nursing home readiness and the critical role of administrators, this study may reveal actionable insights to reduce health risks for older adults and inform tailored interventions to strengthen resilience during extreme smoke events.
