As an elder, living alone and having a disability or special need would you be able to survive a severe emergency or disaster?

In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the tragedy for so many elders who were not able to escape, we can give pause and begin to prepare.

The Council on Aging for Southeastern Vermont, Inc. is dedicated to the support and assistance of people over 60 years of age who reside in Windsor or Windham counties. A major effort of the agency is to encourage and allow elders (including those with disabilities) to remain in their homes for as long as possible. This shows that the agency has a vested interest in plans and efforts to rescue seniors in an emergency or disaster.

It doesn't take much to create an emergency or even a disaster for frail seniors with disabilities or special needs. Any storm or event that results in a power outage can create an emergency that could be life threatening. Electricity is essential for the operation of medical and health monitoring devices. Without it, there is no communication (telephone, television, radio, cell phones, computers,etc.) light, heat, cooling, cooking and water for homes with wells. Severe snow or ice storms can prevent essential caregivers from arriving.

Members of the Council on Aging for Southeastern Vermont's Advisory Council have held many meetings in the past 12 months and have investigated emergency plans in the communities they serve. We have invited Emergency Management Directors from several communities. The federal Department of HomeLand Security requires that each community have an Emergency Planning Director and an Emergency Plan. The members of our Advisory Council have been meeting with their local Selectboards to share the information we have learned and to assist them to make adequate plans for senior residents in the case of an emergency or disaster.

In researching for emergency plans for the elderly, the Advisory Council did find a booklet by the Administration on Aging entitled: " Just in Case--Emergency Readiness for Older Adults and Caregivers". It was adopted by the Council as a guideline for moving forward on emergency planning for the vulnerable populations.

Click here to view a list showing the contact person in your community.

To get a copy of the AOA booklet call our Senior HelpLine: 1-800-642-5119.

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