Aging and Wildfire Risk to Communities

As wildfires grow more intense and frequent, an aging population is increasingly at risk, especially in rural and wildland-urban interface areas. This report highlights how older adults disproportionately live in high-risk wildfire zones, with many aging in place rather than moving to safer locations. Limited mobility, isolation, and health concerns make evacuation and recovery particularly challenging for seniors. Understanding these trends can help shape fire mitigation strategies and emergency response plans tailored to the needs of vulnerable communities.