Book focuses on aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and survivors' longevity
Director of LSU's Life Course and Aging Center, or LCAC, Katie Cherry, along with several LSU colleagues, has published a book titled, "Lifespan Perspectives on Natural Disasters: Coping With Katrina, Rita and Other Storms," through Springer Publishing.
"I am very excited about this edited volume which is unique in that provides a glimpse of psychological reactions to the storms across the lifespan, from the preschool period to the oldest-old adults aged 90 and over," said Cherry. "I imagine that this book would be of interest to a very diverse audience, spanning the science to the service ends of the continuum. Given the complex and tragic nature of Katrina, the worst natural disaster in our nation's history, this book may also appeal to the general public."
The book explores problems that could develop at all stages of life: children and youth, middle aged adults, older adults and very old adults. It also analyzes risks and dangers inherent in different aspects of an individual's life, such as in the workplace, as a volunteer, in the medical field and more.
"It is very important to me that I indicate the truly collaborative nature of the book. All of the contributing authors are top notch scholars in their own rights and each worked hard to ensure that their chapters were not only of the highest possible quality but also integrated with the each other's work," said Cherry. "To me, an indication of the overall value of the book is sheer number of cross-references indicating the complexity and scope of the topic as well as the range of experiences."
In addition to Cherry, other researchers affiliated with the LSU LCAC who have contributed to the book include: