• Helen W Lach, Joanne C Langan, and Dotti C James.
• School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA.
• J Gerontol Nurs. 2005 Nov 1;31(11):21-7.

AbstractThis article is a review of basic, but important information about disaster planning considerations for older populations. The recent hurricane experiences in the South confirmed how critical this planning is, and the importance of early evacuation in saving lives. This is highlighted when comparing the official responses during Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita. Advance preparations result in more control and safety in a dangerous situation. In New Orleans, the delay in evacuation of older adults resulted in panic and confusion, without an easy solution. Those who could not be easily evacuated remained, sometimes at great cost. Gerontological nurses need to advocate for the planning and resources that would assist older adults in a safe and early evacuation if indicated. Adequate support personnel, transportation, and pre-positioned supplies should all be in place for use following a disaster event. Rescue is more costly than evacuation, in both resources and human suffering, and places both rescuers and victims at risk. Each individual, facility, and community needs disaster and evacuation plans that are widely disseminated in advance of any disaster. These plans must address the unique needs of older adults. Hurricane Katrina demonstrated the importance of evacuation before the impact of disaster. When individuals have advance notice of an impending disaster, evacuation can be conducted in a more orderly, planned way to get older adults to safety. Hurricane Rita proved that even advance evacuation is not problem-free, but is well worth the effort. Each facility needs to be prepared to be self-sustaining, to "shelter in place" for at least 72 hours. This requires having the resources and supplies to support at least minimal safe function. However, facilities in locations that could be isolated for longer periods of time should consider having even more supplies in reserve. Recent events may prompt gerontological nurses to ask themselves, their facilities, and communities--Are we prepared?

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