Tips for Seniors and People with Disabilities
Tips for People With Cognitive or Psychiatric Disabilities
[ En Español — Spanish version ]
Before, During and After an Earthquake
- Practice what to do during and after an earthquake. Practice leaving places where you spend time (job, home, school, volunteer assignment, etc.) until you feel comfortable and feel confident that you will know what to do during and after a quake.
Emergency Plan
- Keep a written emergency plan with you and in several locations. Make sure your emergency plan is easy to read and understand.
- After a quake, information often comes at you quickly. Think through ways to do things you will need to do after a quake. Small tape recorder, calendar with room for notes, to do lists, etc., will help you remember things.
- Give copies of your written emergency plan to your personal support network buddies.
- There are a number of emotional reactions that may occur or become more severe after an earthquake. These reactions include: confusion, thought processing and memory difficulties, agitation, paranoia, crying, fear, panic, pacing, shouting, depression, withdrawal, irritability, anxiety, shaking, and sleep disturbance.
- Think through the types of reactions you may anticipate having and plan strategies for coping with these reactions.
- Consider seeking input from your friends, family, therapist or service provider(s).
- Be prepared to have members of your personal support network offer emotional support so you can acknowledge and express feelings about the quake.
Communication
Think through what a rescuer might need to know about you and be prepared to say it briefly, or keep a written copy with you:
- I cannot read. I communicate using an augmentative communication device. I can point to simple pictures or key words which you will find in my wallet or emergency supply kit.
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I may have difficulty understanding what you are telling me, please speak slowly and use simple language.
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I forget easily. Please write down information for me.
- I have a psychiatric disability. In an emergency I may become confused. Help me find a quiet corner and I should be fine in approximately 10 minutes.
- I have a panic disorder. If I panic, give me one green pill (name of medication) located in my (purse, wallet, pocket, etc.)
- I take Lithium and my blood level needs to be checked every ___________.
Treatment Instructions
You may need medical assistance. You even may be hospitalized. Keep with you instructions for your care and treatment, or a copy of a durable power of attorney for health so that someone you have chosen may intervene for you.
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