Giving Compass' Take:

• There is a higher rate of injury and trauma for aging and disabled populations in the wake of a disaster. Here are some critical disaster relief strategies that support these populations specifically. 

• What do disaster resilience efforts for older and disabled people in your area look like? How can donors better prioritize the most vulnerable populations after natural disasters? 

•  Read more about disaster relief and recovery here.

Mature adults and people with disabilities are often more vulnerable when disaster strikes, and this vulnerability translates into a higher rate of injury and trauma and greater loss of life for this population in the wake of a disaster.

Innovative Practices: 

Provide leadership and help nonprofits and agencies who serve older adults and disabled populations as they prepare for and respond to disasters by:

  • supporting coordination and communication efforts regarding preparation and evacuation;
  • supporting evacuation transportation methods;
  • supporting workshops and educational seminars that assist the elderly and disabled community in accessing benefits and other assistance in the aftermath of a disaster;
  • supporting advocacy to ensure rebuilding efforts are in accordance with ADA laws and building codes;
  • establishing funds that address immediate needs and long-term assistance.

Key Takeaways 

  1. Preparedness is essential for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
  2. Philanthropic organizations can draw attention to and support aggressive and comprehensive preparedness and communications plans.
  3. Plans should be established in cooperation with nonprofit organizations and government agencies whose missions are to serve older and vulnerable populations.
  4. Because older adults and individuals with disabilities tend to be more isolated and invisible, it is important to support strong advocacy and education initiatives for their safety and well-being.
  5. Advance planning, coordination, communication, evacuation protocols, and education on disaster mitigation and response for this special population is critical in order to reduce life-threatening illness and morbidity rates.

Read the full article about disaster relief for disabled populations at Disaster Philanthropy Playbook.