Oregon Boosts Disaster Preparedness for Seniors with Free Multilingual Webinar Series

With the increasing frequency of climate-related catastrophes, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is taking proactive measures to assist one of the most vulnerable sections of society – our esteemed older adults. In collaboration with the Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office, AARP and other notable organizations, the second part of a virtual series aimed at bolstering disaster preparedness for seniors is scheduled for next Wednesday. The webinar is designed to educate community groups and individuals who provide support to aging populations on how best to navigate the hurdles of disasters, as per the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

A critical aspect of this initiative includes tackling the intricate challenge of managing medications during an emergency, a task that is uniquely problematic for those depending on life-sustaining prescriptions. The upcoming session also plans to address the heightened vulnerability of seniors to scams and misinformation in the disaster's aftermath, ensuring they're equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves when they're most at risk. Furthermore, the webinar will delve into supporting mental health and reducing social isolation during such stressful times.

In an effort to extend its reach, the educational series has been made freely available to the public, reflecting OEM’s commitment to inclusive awareness and preparedness. Sessions are provided in English with additional interpretation in Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, Chinese, and American Sign Language (ASL). This approach ensures that language is not a barrier to critical information, especially in life-threatening situations. Those who missed Part 1 of the series can catch up by watching the recorded video provided on OEM’s YouTube channel. That session covered vital topics including partnership building between emergency managers and aging service providers, and planning for evacuation and sheltering strategies.

Who should attend these sessions? The organizers suggest participation from organizations, faith groups, and individuals involved in supporting older adults, alongside emergency management professionals and community preparedness advocates who play a role in crisis situations. It's not merely a webinar; it an opportunity to weave a network of safety and awareness throughout the community, making sure that when disaster strikes, our elderly aren't left behind to weather the storm alone.