OTTAWA — Canadian Red Cross is releasing their Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults Guide as part of National Emergency Preparedness Week. The guide was formulated in collaboration with the National Institute for Aging as a resource whose goal is to help seniors prepare for an emergency.
Research shows that older adults consistently experience the highest level of impact during and after emergencies. According to the CRC, “Natural events, such flooding, ice storms, heat waves and other disasters can severely affect older adults as they are more likely to have issues with heating and air conditioning equipment, less optimal housing conditions, and poor coordination between emergency, health, and social services.”
Since disasters can occur at anytime and often without any prior warning, it is very important for individuals, families and in particular older adults to be prepared before an emergency happens.
“It is very important for older adults and their families or caregivers to create a plan before an emergency or disaster strikes,” said Melanie Soler, vice-president of emergency management for Canadian Red Cross. “There are three main considerations for people when it comes to emergency preparedness, which are to know the risks, make a plan, and build an emergency kit.”
The guide offers information about how to access an older adult's medical, physical, and cognitive needs which may affect their ability to respond to a disaster or an emergency. It includes detail about the importance of identifying helpers and building a support network of family, friends, neighbours, careers and health professionals who can help during a disaster or emergency.
A detailed list of items and documents to prepare in the case of evacuation, and what to do once the recovery process begins is also highlighted in the guide.
Historically, the Red Cross has been ready to help people before, during and after a disaster. It continues to be dedicated to helping people and communities across Canada and around the world in times of need.
“We hope older adults and their caregivers will take the time to review this guide and implement the suggestions, as some preparation in advance of an event could help to mitigate potential harm and distress that could come from an emergency or disaster,” said Soler.
The Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults Guide can be found on the Red Cross website.