Older adults and their families can prepare for a disaster by identifying what the individual's needs are daily and how those needs may change or increase during a disaster. Older adults should consider creating a network of neighbors, relatives, friends, and co-workers to aid in planning for and surviving a disaster. Start by developing your personal preparedness plan.
For tips on how to develop your plan, please visit: FEMA Ready Seniors.
Considerations seniors and older adults might need to include in their disaster kits:
- Extra wheelchair batteries
- Oxygen and/or catheters and supplies
- Medications and a list of what your medications are, dosage, refrigeration requirements, etc.
- Food for service animals
- Keep a list of the type and model numbers of the medical devices you require.
- Make arrangements for assistance to get to a shelter; have contact numbers available
Please also visit the Access and Functional Needs/Whole Community Preparedness page on our site for other considerations.
Here are other valuable websites with more information about disaster planning for seniors and older adults:
https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan
https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit
https://www.ready.gov/seniors
https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/seniors-prepare-now-emergency