Senior citizens are considerably more vulnerable for death during a major crisis. For example, 50% of deaths from Hurricane Katrina were over 75 years old, and a study demonstrated people over 85 were 4 times as likely to die in wildfires. Further, when a major heat wave struck Chicago adults over 65 years old made up nearly two-thirds of deaths.
Older citizens may have more difficulty in mitigating a disaster based on limited mobility, a feeling of isolation, and believing they don’t have the capacity to mitigate what may be happening.
Creating an emergency plan, using the ReadyChristian model is a good first step. Most seniors, as well as most Americans, do not have an emergency plan. The seniors among us are generally less adaptable to responding to an emergency than younger individuals. If you are responsible for caregiving of seniors in your family, make a plan in advance. For example, over half will require assistance in any type of evacuation. If special assistance or equipment is necessary, plan in advance what would be needed. Further, seniors who may have additional difficulty in evacuating should be strongly encouraged to depart sooner rather than later because they will have more difficulty mitigating traffic jams, and the general confusion of large-scale evacuations. Identify in advance whom they may be able to stay within the area, or hotel accommodations which may be necessary.
Each senior should have an emergency checklist, in advance, required for evacuation including the minimum of seven days of medication, medical history, over-the-counter items, clothing and important records. Under pressure the checklist will provide faster action with less confusion and help not leaving key items behind.
Make a list of special considerations for your senior family members in your planning. For example, if a family member is in a wheelchair, you’ll need to think through how to transport them and their equipment differently, some tend to get cold easier so extra blankets and warm coats are always important.
A tremendous ministry outreach opportunity is to identify any senior citizen neighbors whom you may be able to assist. One step may be to ensure your neighbor has contacted family members and has worked out an effective and manageable plan. If the family is located far away, you may want to contact them and make certain they understand the seriousness of the situation so they will support their older relative and take appropriate action.
You may want to offer transportation either to an emergency evacuation center or other location which will keep the individual safe. If a major hurricane is coming ashore and you’re going to weather the storm at home, invite them to come over as your guest so they’re not alone.
The Lord spoke and said, ““You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.” (Leviticus 19:32) and you can do your part in ministering to the elderly during crisis keeping in mind they are considerably more vulnerable than others.
Learn more about becoming a Ready Christian and learn how to prepare your family and minister in and through disasters, large and small.
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