The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), in conjunction with various local partners, is conducting a second installment of its webinar series geared towards aiding older communities with disaster preparedness. This virtual event, tailored specifically for organizations and individuals involved in assisting seniors, delves into critical issues such as medication management, scam awareness, and mental health support in the aftermath of natural disasters, according to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.
Scheduled for May 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PST, the webinar emerges as a proactive step addressing the challenges faced by older adults during crises, a. Living often on fixed incomes, reliance on mobility devices, or dealing with social isolation - these are factors that magnify the vulnerability of our seniors when nature turns its ire against us. AARP, the Oregon Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Disabilities, and the Oregon State University Extension Service are part of the collaboration bringing this webinar to life.
As noted in an announcement posted by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, "This educational series will offer practical guidance for individuals and organizations working with older adults to strengthen emergency readiness across the state." The session welcomes emergency management professionals, faith groups, and others who have a stake in bolstering the resilience of the elderly in uncertain times.
For those who were unable to attend the first webinar, which tackled the intersection of emergency management and aging service providers, a video recording and presentation slides are readily available online. The initial session, held on April 23, provided insights on evacuation strategizing, sheltering necessities, and securing medical equipment, while also highlighting the importance of signing up for emergency alert systems. Interested parties can find a treasure trove of useful resources in multiple languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, Chinese, and American Sign Language (ASL), at OEM’s YouTube channel, as per the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.
