AARP Eye Center
WASHINGTON—A majority of older adults have not taken steps to ensure they receive information during a disaster and are more likely to be unprepared if a disaster strikes, according to a new AARP survey. The findings underscore the need for enhanced emergency disaster preparedness and active information-seeking among older adults.
Less than one-third (29%) of those surveyed have yet to create a comprehensive emergency plan for natural disasters, while just 1 in 10 have embraced modern tools such as disaster-related apps or text notifications from official national disaster resource agencies. And only 10% of older adults follow national disaster resource organizations on social media such as FEMA, American Red Cross and The Salvation Army.
“Technology has made it easier for people to prepare and take action during emergencies, but it's reliability depends on the steps a person takes before a disaster strikes,” said Tom Kamber, Executive Director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP. “Older adults are disproportionately impacted by severe weather, so it’s critical to have an emergency plan in place and be tech ready to stay actively informed during an emergency.”
Growing evidence reveals older adults' heightened vulnerability to increasingly severe weather-related emergencies and disasters. Those with chronic illnesses, functional limitations, or disabilities face even greater risks. Beyond a higher mortality risk, older adults often suffer long-term adverse effects on their physical and mental health, economic security, and overall well-being.
Key findings include:
OATS from AARP offers these tech readiness tips through its flagship program Senior Planet:
For more information and resources to help get prepared, visit AARP.org/DisasterPrep.
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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.