When planning for large scale emergency situations, it’s easy to forget that some segments of the population have special needs that go beyond the average and require more than a survival kit and an evacuation plan. Many elderly and disabled persons have very specific medical needs that must be met regardless of external happenings. Limited mobility, access to medication and frailty from pre existing conditions are only some of the many possible complications faced by the elderly and disabled in an emergency situation. These factors can often be life threatening if left unattended.
As the percentage of elderly and frail members of society grows, and an increasing number of patients receive treatment in home care or nursing facilities, it can be difficult to ensure that proper medical treatment will continue to be administered in a disaster scenario. Responsibility for the care of elderly members of society during fires, floods, hurricanes and earthquakes is split between the family and friends of the elderly, the healthcare system, and the community as a whole.
There are a number of important precautions that can be taken to help ensure that the proper measures are taken to deliver necessary care in a disaster scenario:
Pertinent medical information
In the event that a disaster hits and an individual with special medical needs is separated from his or her caregiver, it’s important for them to be able to make others aware of their conditions. Medical bracelets and other visible cues can help alert members of the public to individuals with medical needs so that they can then help them get the necessary treatment for their specific condition. Another option is to keep a written note with a list of medical conditions, prescriptions, and any other important information. Registering with special needs registries in your catchment area can also help officials recognize individuals with special medical needs more quickly.
Designated contacts to provide assistance
To make sure that patients with special medical needs are taken care of in an emergency situation, a set of designated contacts should be established who will be responsible for their assistance. These contacts could be family members, members of the community, or paid healthcare providers. Contacts can take responsibility for any number of duties, including transportation, administration of essential medications, or general assistance. Adding clear accountability makes contacts feel responsible and avoids situations where the elderly and disabled are disregarded and left to be “someone else’s problem”.
Personal disaster plans
Having a personal disaster plan gives elderly or disabled individuals personal agency, and a feeling of control over their situation. This helps avoid the potential for feelings of helplessness and confusion in the event of an emergency. Planning should include dependable transportation options, evacuation routes, and knowledge of nearby medical facilities. A special kit containing extra batteries and backups of important medical devices should also be prepared in case the individual in question is isolated from medical facilities for an extended period of time.
These factors combined with a well implemented regional emergency plan are the best safety measures to ensure the well being of elderly and disabled members of the population during an emergency situation.
Author Resource:
Scott Mitchell is a fire and life safety expert at WPS Disaster Management Solutions. WPS is an industry leader in disaster planning and emergency planning. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.wps-plan.com
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