Protecting older adults living at home is our number one priority. We want to make sure each resident feels safe at home and is prepared for an emergency. The Disaster Readiness in Place Kit provides a key emergency supply list as well as guides to help the older adult plan and prepare for disaster situations.

Below you can click the individual headings to download each handouts, or download all by clicking here. You can click to download the Spanish version handout below or you can download all the handouts in Spanish by clicking here.

Disaster Readiness in Place Kit has Seven key handouts:

• Care Plan Spanish

A form that summarizes a person's basic information, health condition, medication, healthcare providers, and emergency contact information.

• Emergency Resources Spanish

A form to fill out choice of hospital, police department, and fire department to contact if an emergency was to occur.

• Evacuation Plan Checklist Spanish

Checklist which includes planning for an escape route and steps for evacuation.

• Emergency Go Bag Spanish

Supplies to take when evacuation orders occur. Includes a checklist for all items from hygiene supplies to personal items. Memory books and fidget blankets are additional items an older adult may include in their Emergency Go Bag to reduce anxiety, specifically for those with cognitive decline and dementia. Below are explanation of what each items are and how they can be utilized.

What is a "Memory Book"? Purpose of a memory book is to provide a record of the individual's personal life story. A memory book is a helpful item to have as it provides information on the older adult's interests and stimulating activities. This book can help the older adult start a conversation with the pictures.

What is a "Fidget Blanket"? Sensory stimulation can provide soothing effects for those who are agitated. A fidget blanket is a quilt with different objects attached to it that can stimulate the senior. It can relieve their boredom and focus on one task. Fidget blanket may have different texture and tactile stimulation items such as fake fur, corduroy, yarn, ribbons, buttons, zippers, pockets, bean bag, buckles, beads, laces and other household items.

• Home Safety Checklist Spanish

Checklist for self-evaluation of home to reduce fall risk within home.

• Assistive Devices List Spanish

List of additional resources to aid older adults to ensure safety such as phone apps and information on Medical Guardian. Provides a step by step guide to sign-up for the apps.

• Pet Preparedness Checklist Spanish

Checklist on how to prepare your pet's from a natural disaster

HOME DISASTER PREPAREDNESS PLANS

All handouts have been created for Council on Aging by Dominican University of California, Occupational Therapy Students, Kevin Chavez, Kiyomi Kuroda, Jennifer Pineda, Aileen Quach, and Christine Vincent. These are open access to the public as long as the original work is properly cited.