Full Citation

Title: Extreme Weather Events and Family Caregiving

Citation Type: Conference Paper

Publication Year: 2011

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Abstract: The 2001 IPCC report warns that an increase in the heat waves will raise mortality, primarily among the most vulnerable segments of the population, such as children, the elderly, and the poor. This has resulted in the adoption of public programs that help curb the mortality and morbidity effects of extreme weather events by keeping an eye on the most vulnerable segments of the population. We examine whether individuals re-direct attention to potentially sensitive family members during extreme weather episodes. In particular, on extremely hot or cold days is child- and household member care time different? Do poorer households reallocate child and household care time differently from richer households? Is there a differential response in childcare giving by mothers and fathers? Does the presence of elderly persons result in different patterns in time use? Using data from the 2003-2007 American Time Use Surveys merged with weather data, we find that while womens child care time is relatively insensitive to weather, men tend to engage in more child care when it is extremely cold, and less when it is hot. Poorer households seem to be less capable of adapting. Wealthier mothers spend more time on child care on hot days than poor mothers do.

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Authors: Veronesi, Marcella; Alberini, Anna

Conference Name: European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists

Publisher Location: University of Rome Tor Vergata's Botanical Garden, Rome, Italy

Data Collections: IPUMS Time Use - ATUS

Topics: Family and Marriage, Fertility and Mortality, Health

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