Disaster planning is key for those of us with elderly parents or loved ones. Senior citizens, especially those with medical issues and limited mobility, can be vulnerable in the event of a disaster. But even if you have physical limitations, you can still protect yourself by having a personal disaster plan in place. Below, I’ve outlined some steps to creating a disaster plan, and some ideas for a disaster ‘Go-Bag’ for preparedness.

Local, state and federal officials are urging all Americans, especially senior citizens, to review, update and rehearse their disaster plans. By looking ahead, seniors can be prepared for any disaster, natural or man-made.

Senior citizens living in a group setting such as a nursing home or adult living facility should contact the administrator to learn about the specific disaster/evacuation plan for that facility.

But no matter where you are evacuating from, all seniors need to be aware of their own unique needs. By evaluating personal and medical needs and making an emergency plan, seniors can be better prepared for any situation no matter where they live.

There are three simple steps to disaster preparation: Make a kit, plan ahead and stay informed.

Make an Emergency Kit or ‘Go Bag’

Your Disaster Emergency Kit should include the following supplies to last at least three days:

• Water – at least one gallon per day per person for drinking and sanitation
• Food and utensils
• Blankets and extra clothing
• First Aid kit – include medical insurance and Medicaid cards
• Battery powered AM/FM radio and/or a NOAA weather radio receiver
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Prescription medicines
• Medical supplies -an extra pair of glasses, hearing aid batteries, etc.
• Emergency contact list
• Extra cash

Make a Disaster Plan

Prepare your disaster action plan, review and practice it regularly:

• If you are a senior who lives alone, talk to your family or friends about preparing for emergencies, getting help in the event of an evacuation and dealing with the aftermath of a disaster. Create a network of neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers who can help in an emergency. Discuss needs and make sure everyone knows how to operate necessary medical equipment.
• If you live in an assisted living facility or nursing home, you should contact the administrator to learn about the disaster plan for that facility.
• Be aware of the possibility that you may temporarily not have access to your doctor’s office or a drug store.
• Arrange for electronic payments of federal benefits. A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or even weeks. Switching to electronic payments also eliminates the risk of stolen checks.