“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Disasters can strike with little warning – whether it’s a hurricane, earthquake, tornado, flood, fire, or winter storm. For seniors and their families, being prepared can make all the difference in staying safe and connected during an emergency.
Our faith community encourages everyone to care for the most vulnerable among us. If you know a senior or someone living alone, reach out and help them get prepared. Together, we can face any storm with readiness and love. Episcopal Relief & Development focuses on helping regional and globally and has prayer resources for both groups and individuals. FEMA, The American Red Cross, and AARP have practical resources for you, your neighbors and friends.
If you are a senior or caregiver within the Diocese and need assistance learning how to navigate these resources, reach out to your church or the Commission on Aging.
Key Tips for Seniors and Families
Create a Plan Together: Identify escape routes, meeting places, and emergency contacts. Make sure everyone knows the plan, especially caregivers and neighbors.
Keep a Go-Bag Ready: Pack essential items like medications, glasses, important documents, water, non-perishable food, flashlight, phone charger, and a list of medical needs.
Stay Informed: Sign up for local emergency alerts and keep a battery-powered radio on hand. Add the FEMA app and bookmark the American Red cross link to your phone or computer.
Know Your Resources: If mobility or medical devices are needed, contact local emergency services in advance to register for priority assistance during evacuations.
FEMA provides a video, a step by step resource, and a guide for older adults:
- Preparing Makes Sense for Older Americans (video)
- Older Adults step-by-step resource guide
- FEMA Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults
Additional considerations if you have mobility or hearing loss or other challenges:
AARP provides an on-line tool kit as well as an article about kits
The Red Cross provides information on nearby shelters during disasters:
Did you know FEMA has an app for your phone or computer to help you find resources, track weather emergencies, and find shelter locations?
Spiritual Resources
- The Online Book of Common Prayer
- Daily Prayer: A Resource of Forward Movement
- Good Book Club
- Daily Prayer: A Resource of Forward Movement Podcasts
- Older Adult Resources – The Episcopal Church
- Faith Formation & Spirituality of Aging.doc
- Episcopal Church Foundation Vital Practices- Caring & Grief
“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” – Psalm 32:7-8
Julie Crawford is a member of the Commission on Aging, a board member of the Senior Resource Center of NJ, and a NJ Licensed Long Term Care Ombudsman.
