Why Do They Not Come Home? Three Cases of Fukushima Nuclear Accident Evacuees

Abstract

Many people wish to return to where they used to live after evacuation due to disaster. After the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011, many residents were forced to evacuate due to concerns about radiation. Subsequently, the evacuation order was lifted, and the government promoted a return policy. However, it has been reported that a considerable number of residents living in evacuation sites or other areas wish to return but are unable to do so. Here, we report three cases of Japanese men and one woman who evacuated after the 2011 nuclear accident in Fukushima. These cases reveal the rapid aging of residents and their health issues. These issues suggest that enhancing medical supply systems and access to medical care can aid in post-disaster reconstruction and residents’ returning.

Idobata-Nagaya: a community housing solution for socially isolated older adults following the great East Japan earthquake

“…In regions hit by the 2011 disaster, there were cases in which returning to residential areas was difficult because of a lack of appropriate care facilities for older people (33). In Katsurao Village, located 20-30 km from the nuclear power plant, difficulty in accessing continuous longterm care insurance services made settling challenging (34). By contrast, in Kawauchi Village, also 20-30 km from the nuclear power plant, the presence of a special nursing home for older adults allowed residents and their families to return to their original homes (35).…”

Multisite Lifestyle for Older People after the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster

“…Indeed, it is possible that older people may migrate to seek social resources, such as medical, nursing, and preventive care, in line with the health problems they face. As a result of seeking a place to improve their quality of life, they opt to maintain multiple bases, such as the original place, the evacuation site, and the nursing home [25].…”

“…The aim of this report is to provide insights into the present situation, and challenges associated with the multisite lifestyle experienced by The multisite lifestyle (living) in this report refers to a lifestyle involving living at multiple sites following a nuclear incident. Few studies have described situations in which large numbers of residents feel compelled to maintain their residences in multiple locations, amidst the ongoing return policies [25]. Why do so many people maintain multiple sites of residence after a nuclear accident?…”