Icon representing a plan with a checkmark.

Older Adults

Alameda County general emergency preparedness top tips

Create a support network of people who will help you if disaster strikes. Consider your family, friends, community organizations, faith-based groups, and neighborhood networks.

Pack a supply of your required, daily needs such as medications and daily medical supplies, glasses, hearing aids and extra batteries in your emergency kit.

Have a plan for accessible transportation methods for different disasters and account for any assistive and mobility devices.

Visit Older Adults | Ready.gov to view general emergency preparedness information for Older Adults.

Specific Emergencies

Wildfires

Older adults may be at risk during evacuations due to impaired mobility.
Officials issue evacuations warnings before evacuations orders when possible. To allow extra travel time, older adults may consider evacuating during evacuation warnings or at any point that they feel unsafe. Never wait to be told to leave an unsafe situation.
Fire Safety for Older Adults

Smoke and Poor Air Quality

Older Adults are more likely to have medical conditions and can be at risk.
People with diabetes, heart, or lung disease are particularly at risk of wildfire smoke.

Heat waves

Older adults are more sensitive to heat because they tend to sweat less, which is one of the ways that the body keeps cool.
Heat impacting older adults and tips on how to keep cool

Flooding

Older adults may be at risk due to reduced mobility during evacuations.
Officials issue evacuations warnings before evacuations orders when possible. To allow extra travel time, older adults may consider evacuating during evacuation warnings or at any point that they feel unsafe. Never wait to be told to leave an unsafe situation.

Earthquake

Older Adults may be exposed to risks due to impaired mobility and diminished sensory awareness due to age.
California ShakeOut - Disability Resource Center

Power Outage

Older adults who use medical and mobility devices that require electricity may be at risk.
Resources:

Medical Baseline Program
Allows you to get a bill reduction for the use of electricity for qualifying medical devices and extra PG&E notifications when there are planned power shutoffs.
Portable Battery Program
If you are income qualified, allows you to receive a fully subsidized battery for use during planned shutoff events.
Disability Disaster Access and & Resources Program
This program includes support such as portable backup batteries, hotel accommodation, and food vouchers.