During an emergency, seniors and those with a disability may have special needs that must be considered when creating a household plan and emergency pack.
Mobility
If you or a family member have difficulty moving quickly and easily, make sure your neighbors are aware and that you have someone who can check in during an emergency.
Develop a support network with several people who will continue to follow up with you following an emergency.
Medication & Medical Supplies
Keep a separate supply of at least 7 days worth of any medication or critical medical supplies.
If you rely on electric medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, ventilators and oxygen compressors, talk to your medical supply company about getting batteries or a generator as a back up power source.
Care
During an emergency, personal care attendants may not be able to make it to their patients. Make sure you have made arrangements with caregivers and/or are familiar with your personal care agencies emergency policy.
If you have a service animal, make sure that it has a registered tag.
Additions to the Emergency Kit and Go Bag
Extra mobility aids, including a manual wheelchair
A whistle to signal for help
Necessary medications and supplies
Special sanitary needs
Important medical phone numbers
Food that meets specialized dietary needs
Make a list of your medications, medical conditions, insurance information, allergies, and have your insurance cards available. Keep one copy with you at all times, and give the other copy to someone else for safekeeping.
