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Despite the intuitive appeal of using emerging technologies for disaster preparedness, there is a lack of comprehensive research exploring their applications. This study employs a nationwide 2023 and 2024 survey on technology use for disaster preparedness by older adults and people with disabilities. The survey assessed respondents' frequency of use, willingness to use, use comfort, perceived usefulness, and attitude toward using technologies. Overall, there were 1696 responses from 2023 and 2024 surveys, with 85 respondents completing the survey in both years. Using the TAM model, PATH findings indicate comfort significantly influenced perceived usefulness but not attitude. Attitude did not significantly influence behavioral intention to use, however, perceived usefulness did influence behavioral intention. 

While disaster preparedness is known as a force multiplier to reduce impacts for individuals, there is limited research or practice to measure the influence of preparedness activities. Most metrics focus on how many people received preparedness information or how many pamphlets were distributed. This study outlines a project to use virtual reality to measure preparedness among the public. Focused initially on older adults, the goal is to create a game that can be used on multiple populations, which will collect data about preparedness activities. The tool will be used in an experimental design to assist in further refinement. The mixed method experiment includes surveys, field study with the VR headsets, and observational data. Once complete the game will be useful for researchers or practitioners needed actionable data regarding the preparedness practices of individuals and households. 

This study gauges the preparedness levels of individuals (younger and older) across hazards and investigates their willingness to use emerging technology for disaster preparedness. Older adults are among the most vulnerable during disasters and more likely to be displaced. As climate change contributes to the increased frequency, intensity, and scale of disasters, the number of areas impacted by multiple hazards has also increased. In December 2023, a nationwide survey with over 1,000 respondents was launched. The results indicate a variation in the perception of preparedness across hazards, at the individual level. Additionally, most respondents would use emerging technology to help them improve their disaster preparedness, including smart speakers, phones, mobile appliances, cars, wearable devices, robots, and virtual reality devices. Findings indicate that older adults may be willing to use emerging technology that they are uncomfortable with for disaster preparedness, necessitating training, exercises, and qualitative research to understand how and why.