Seniors and the Disabled:
Planning for and Surviving a Disaster
Although everyone should create an emergency plan, the elderly and persons
with disabilities may have special needs to prepare for. If you are disabled
or have activity limitations, or if you have a loved one who is, consider these
important steps in thinking about how you will respond during a disaster.
Keep informed
Listen to the TV and radio for the latest information. If you are not able to
do this, then have a friend or neighbor relay the information to you. Make sure you have a
way to communicate with designated friends and/or family members.
Create a plan
Everyone needs to know what to do, who to call, and where to go during emergencies.
Develop a personal emergency plan for each place where you spend time –
at home, work, school and in the community. The following are some key items to include
in your plan. Important and detailed information about planning considerations
is available through the Center for Disabilities and the Health Professions
at http://www.cdihp.org/pdf/finalv4brochure.pdf
At Home
Refer to the disaster plan overview for details to include in your plan. You should also
consider the following:
- Home Care:
If you have a home care attendant, include them in developing the plan.
Check with your home care agency to see how their plans will affect you.
- Meal Delivery:
Check with your home-delivered meal provider for information about deliveries
and always have some non-perishable food at home in case meal deliveries
are suspended.
- Medical Needs:
Be sure to have a continued care plan with your doctor that includes emergency
prescription refills. If you receive dialysis or other medical treatments,
find out your provider’s emergency plan.
At Work
The place where you work should have an emergency plan that includes evacuation.
Find out where the evacuation routes are and what emergency policies and procedures
are in place. Floor marshals are people assigned to assist with evacuation.
Let the floor marshals know about any special assistance you may need in an
emergency.
Make yourself familiar with the evacuation plan. Have a “buddy”
if you need assistance in evacuating a building. Be sure that the evacuation
drills are practiced, and that you are evacuated along with everyone else.
Practice Your Plan
The most important step in knowing evacuation procedures in case of an emergency
is to practice the evacuation plan. You should practice the plan at least 2-3
times a year. If you have a home care attendant, include them. If you have a
service animal, involve them.
Adjust your plan as necessary, such as making sure all phone numbers are up
to date, and that the medication in your emergency kit has not expired or changed.
Additional Information:
Commission on the Affairs of the Elderly
617.635.4366
http://www.cityofboston.gov/elderly
Commission for Persons with Disabilities
Office of Civil Rights
617.635.2500
http://www.cityofboston.gov/civilrights/disability.asp
National Organization on Disability:
Phone – 202-293-5960
http://www.nod.org
American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/beprepared/disability.html
