Preparing for emergencies - some general thoughts
The recent disasters in China and Myanmar should be a wake-up call for emergency preparedness, and for seniors and the disabled there are unique issues of preparedness. I think of those issues falling into three general categories:
- Mobility - whether it’s difficulty walking long distances or the need for a wheelchair, planning for mobility in a time of blocked/destroyed roads, lack of power, etc. is crucial
- Medical - complex regimens of medicine or the need for breathing or other apparatus for life support are examples of the extra planning required
- Environmental - when there’s little or no shelter, and no heating or cooling, surviving the elements is an added challenge for physically weaker people and requires special planning.
These are some things to keep in mind as you read through the excellent material at these websites: ReadyAmerica - Advice for Seniors, Red Cross Seniors Preparedness, Get Prepared - Canadian government preparedness advice.
