#NPM2023 Week 1: Preparing for Older Adults & People with Disabilities

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Last Updated: September 6, 2023

Multi-Generation Family Sitting On Sofa At Home Reading Book With Baby Granddaughters

 

#NPM2023 Week 1: Preparing for Older Adults and People with Disabilities

We know older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas. As an older adult, you may have specific needs after a disaster. Use the information below to assess your needs and take simple, low-cost steps that help you and your loved ones get better prepared.
  • Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to local emergency station or TV for warnings about disasters and emergencies near your area. 
  • Plan how you will communicate if you have special communication needs (deaf or hard of hearing, Blind or have low vision, speech disability). 
  • Communication cards to say you are deaf, deaf/blind or hard of hearing (Card can be located at Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division) 
  • Notebook and pens for writing notes. 
  • Plan for food, water, and essentials for you and pets or service animals. 
  • Plan for your transportation if you may need help evacuating. 
  • Plan how you will evacuate with any assistive devices (wheelchairs, walkers).
  • Include medicines, medical supplies, batteries, and chargers. 
  • Make copies of ID, Medicaid, Medicare, and other insurance cards. 
  • Phone and/or tablet and chargers. 
  • If have service animal or pet, pet supplies such as food, leashes, and medications. 

Consider adding to Emergency Preparedness Kit: 

  • Plan to have contact information for important people and care providers. 
  • Hearing aids, assistive listening devices, braille display, glasses (extra batteries). 
  • A list of medicines you need, dosage instructions, and any allergies. 
  • Contact information for your durable medical provider. 
  • Communication apps on your phone or tablet (speech-to-text apps, video relay service apps, captioned telephone apps, IP Relay or real-time text apps).
  • List need-to-know information for first responders and others who might need to help you during this emergency. 

Additional Resources: 

OK-WARN Weather alert remote notification for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing 

ARC Being Prepared Means Planning Ahead 

FEMA/ARC Preparing for Disaster for People with Disabilities and other Special Needs 

VDEM Individuals with Disabilities