Disaster Preparedness for the Elderly: A checklist
Elsewhere on this website you can find an overview of general disaster preparedness as it relates to persons who are elderly. Following is a checklist that elderly persons may use to enhance their disaster preparedness:
Use the following checklist to get started:
- Assemble a disaster supplies kit (PDF).
- Arrange for someone to check on you.
- Plan and practice the best escape routes from your home.
- Plan for transportation if you need to evacuate to a Red Cross shelter.
- Find the safe places in your home for each type of emergency.
- Have a plan to signal the need for help.
- Post emergency phone numbers near the phone.
- If you have home health care service, plan ahead with your agency for emergency procedures.
- Teach those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment. Be sure they will be able to reach you.
- Consider special needs such as Alzheimer’s Disease (link to Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return Program pdf found on General Public FS, tab Special Needs) and other dementias, discussed elsewhere on this website.
- Consider special medical needs (link to This website pdf under disaster response found on General Public FS, tab Special Needs) such as diabetes, oxygen-dependence, and lack of mobility, as they may relate to disaster preparedness.
Web Links
Tips for Senior Adults is another helpful computer file with some senior-specific disaster planning tips.