Seniors and Disasters

While disasters take a toll on everyone, no group is more impacted than aging adults - seniors - especially those of us who also have physical limitations and mobility issues.

Though our nation regularly experiences major disasters, it was the devastating hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Sandy that made it crystal clear – seniors suffer the most fatalities, severe injuries and are the most likely to be left behind.

This occurs primarily for two reasons:  Many seniors are not appropriately prepared and have not been provided disaster response know-how.  But significant also are the shortcomings of community and municipal emergency planning for seniors.  Even if plans address this population it is often less than adequate and seldom practiced in emergency exercises.

I have talked with many fellow seniors about emergency preparation.  Most are not adequately prepared to meet their most basic needs for even a couple days.  Some have become apathetic about disaster; many believe such an event will never affect them; others mention a 25-year old dusty 72-hour back-pack that has never been reviewed or refreshed.  Many assign their reluctance to prepare to lack of resources.

Still others tell me they intend to be taken by the first wave of disaster so preparing is unnecessary.  There is an obvious flaw in this strategy:  Experience informs us that most will survive and instantly become part of the problem --because they have no means to meet their essential needs until help from outside the area arrives – 4-7 days later.

The solution for seniors:  Start now to prepare. Simple is smart. it does not have to be a drain on time and resources.  Approach it gradually, one step at a time.  First step is always water.  You can never have too much water.  Safe drinking water saves lives. The experts say at least 1 gallon/person/day; it is inexpensive, but it is heavy (8.3lbs/gallon).

Give up on back packs -- think wheels.  Carts, wagons, dollies and bungee cords will allow you to create a sensible, effective 96-hour emergency kit that you can manage.  You may need it for a quick-on-foot evacuation. 

Next start gathering an emergency supply of your medications.

Refer to the article on this BLOG site 96-Hour Kit that provides lots of suggestions for your emergency kit.  Remember:  Kits are personal.  Suggestions are just ideas.  You have to prepare for your own essential needs. 

What is the solution for your community and municipal planning?  Talk to the emergency managers and volunteer community leaders.  Find out what they have planned to help aging adults and others with special needs.  Ask to read the plan for yourself and ask questions.

You might also ask: “What can I do to help.”