Seniors and those with disabilities may be more vulnerable to disaster-caused stress than others. While many are in good physical health, others may have one or more impairments that can become disabilities in an emergency. I felt compelled to write about emergency procedures for seniors and those with disabilities. Credit goes to Utah State University for most of the content.
For many seniors and disabled individuals, physical impairments, medical and dietary needs, lack of transportation and isolation can make it harder for them to remain safe, and to recover from a hazardous situation. A little advanced preparation can make it far more likely that appropriate action can be taken before…during…and after an emergency.
Here is a “must-do” list of emergency procedures for seniors and those with disabilities .
Plan and Prepare:
- A change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes
- An extra set of keys, spare glasses, hearing aid batteries, a week’s supply of medications, and copies of prescriptions, wear medical alert tags
- Some cash, change and credit cards
- Personal hygiene supplies
- Phone numbers of relatives, friends, and physicians
- Copies of your medical insurance and Medicare cards readily available.
- A list of the style and serial number of medical devices or other life-sustaining devices. Include operating information and instructions. (Make sure that a friend or family member has copies of these documents.)
- If you have a communication disability, make sure your emergency information notes the best way to communicate with you.
- Keep these documents in a water proof container for quick and easy access.
- Extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen.
- List of doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt.
Prepare to Stay:
In many emergencies, it may be impossible for to leave home or for rescuers to arrive promptly. In these cases, it’s important to have supplies on hand.
- Three days’ supply of bottled water (one gallon of water per person a day) in small, easily opened bottles; replace the water every six months.
- Nonperishable foods. Choose foods that are easy to store and carry, nutritious, and ready-to-eat; don’t forget to include a manual can opener.
- Several flashlights with replacement batteries.
- One week’s supply of medications with instructions for their use.
- A battery-operated radio – know how to tune in NOAA Weather Radio.
- A whistle or large bell to attract attention.
- Extra blankets.
- Toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, personal hygiene supplies.
As I state throughout my website, “Learn all you can. Be Prepared. Then contact us if you need more information”.
