Access & Functional Needs/Older Adults
Emergencies and disasters can strike quickly and without warning and can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or be confined to your home. What would you do if your basic services (e.g., water, gas, electricity or communications) were cut off?
Before a disaster happens, it is a good idea to have a talk with those in your support network; your friends, family and neighbors. Let them know your needs in an emergency; ask them how they could assist with your plan and whether they would be willing to help. Consider that during some emergencies, travel is severely limited and they may not be able to get to you.
If you live in a senior community, become familiar with any disaster notification plans that may already exist. Talk to your community management or resident council about how you can all be more prepared together.
Additional items to consider as part of your disaster supplies kit:
- Batteries for hearing aids and wheelchair
- Oxygen, catheters, etc.
- Glasses
- Footwear
- Medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements
- Cane and/or walker
Resources: