By Sanaya SinhaRoy

Every September, organizations recognize National Preparedness Month, a month where we support the efforts in taking action before, during and after an emergency. As we grow older, certain risks become more prevalent but staying prepared for any circumstances can reduce these risks. While being prepared is important for people of all ages, it is important to customize preparedness plans to address the unique needs and challenges that older adults may face.

Securing Important Documents

A disaster or emergency could erase vital documents or records. Encourage everyone in your community to keep multiple copies in different and secure places. With today’s technology, storing documents online can be done easily with just a click of a button. 

Vital documents could be:

• Personal identification card (passport, driver’s license, Medicare card
• Personal Medication Records/Immunization Records
• Social security card
• Health Insurance cards
• Financial records
• Family Records
• Records of passwords and PINs

Prepare Emergency Kits

After an emergency or disaster, people often have items necessary post-disaster, but not organized in one place. It is important to consolidate all these items into one place to avoid panic and confusion.

Basic Supplies in the Emergency Kit could include:

• Food that should for sustain 3 days; this should include non-perishables and a can opener for canned food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio & weather radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit with the basics: bandages, thermometer, antiseptic, gloves, etc.
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Local maps
• Pet food, extra supplies for your house pet

For additional items, visit FEMA’s Ready Emergency Supply List

Develop an Evacuation Plan

Post disaster can be a chaotic and frightening time with people unsure and confused what to do. It is important to organize a plan and share it with others in the community to execute after such incidents. This plan should include a meeting place, maps of the local area, and a list of emergency contacts. This plan should be shared with everyone in the community in order to ensure the safest and most convenient way of planning. Consider inviting an emergency response expert to speak to your community about emergency preparedness topics and the best evacuation routes for your area.

Be Prepared Financially

Rebuilding your lives financially after a disaster or emergency can be devastating and stressful. Having quick and easy access to personal financial, insurance, medical and other records is important in order to ensure an efficient recovery. Consider saving money in an emergency savings account that can be accessed anytime. Setting a small amount of cash aside in a safe place inside your home is important because ATM’s and credit cards may not work during a disaster, at a time when you need to purchase necessary supplies like fuel and food.

For more tips on Financial Preparedness, visit FEMA’s toolkit.