Vulnerable populations have always been at the greatest risk after natural disasters strike, as physical, mental, or financial limitations put extra strains on their ability to respond quickly and safely to catastrophes, according to an article in Next Avenue. The elderly population in particular often finds themselves under pressure, with many members of that group being at least partially isolated from the wider community. “What we found is that the older population isn’t as prepared as others,” Natasha Bryant, managing director/senior research associate at the LeadingAge LTSS Center @UMass Boston, told Next Avenue. “They are particularly vulnerable.”
For these groups, a disaster plan can be critical, developed with the assistance of the children of the elderly. “Many times, our parents think they are perfectly capable of dealing with the situation they have dealt with many times before. Don’t wait. Be persistent,” Victoria Funes, associated state director for AARP Florida, of the need for a disaster plan, told Next Avenue.
Whether through basic preparations like assembling a simple emergency supply kit, establishing a transportation plan, and determining a method to contact family members, or more comprehensive plans like those available from FEMA or AARP, preparing in advance can greatly help older relatives in times of emergency.
Source:
https://www.nextavenue.org/disaster-planning-for-your-parents/
