Prepare
For People with additional needs
Retired individuals may feel dependent on others in a time of need, but it is very important to ensure that you are safe when nobody else is there.
Earthquakes
Although senior citizens more vulnerable to disasters than younger people, they still need to be prepared for an earthquake. Many seniors live alone or may even have limited physical mobility, so it is important to take a few precautionary steps beforehand and make an emergency preparedness plan to fit their needs.
Wildfires
Although senior citizens more vulnerable to disasters than younger people, they still need to be prepared for fires. Many seniors live alone or may even have limited physical mobility, so it is important to take a few precautionary steps beforehand and make an emergency preparedness plan to fit their needs.
Extreme Heat and Cold
The elderly can be vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather. During heat waves, senior citizens are highly susceptible to heat strokes and make up the majority of heat-related deaths. Many factors put them at an increased risk such having poorer circulation or having increased heat sensitivity due to side effects of medications. Many people often do not realize their symptoms when they are dehydrated and in a life-threatening condition. Fortunately, you can easily prevent these circumstances!
Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Vaccinations are crucial for people with additional needs, who are constantly in close proximity with people who take care of them. People with additional needs most likely have multiple caregivers caring for them and it can be very easy to pass along an infectious disease—vaccinations are the first line of defense for disease outbreaks. Click to learn more about how to prepare yourself for a disease outbreak.
Cybercrime
For many senior citizens, it can be challenging to navigate the increasingly complex cyber world and avoid falling into the traps of online scams. Roughly 67% of U.S. seniors have been victims or targets of at least one online scam or hack. Many fraudulent schemes tend to target this population in order to extract personal information such as social security and bank account number. Unfortunately, cybercrime is considered a low-risk crime, so many cases often go unreported and are often difficult to prosecute.
Chemical Emergencies
Responding to chemical emergencies requires rapid response. For many people with additional needs, this can be difficult and unrealistic. Instead of having to face a disaster head-on, they can make some simple yet effective adjustments to their living space. Likewise, people with additional needs may find the following tips helpful for mitigating dangerous consequences of a chemical emergency.