Disaster management policies should target the empowerment of senior citizens


30.09.2018

One of the main ways in which elderly people can be better supported is that they are “seen, heard and understood; have equal access to essential support services; and have their potential and contribution recognised, valued and supported”. This includes adequate consultation and inclusion for older people, since: “…under the right conditions, consultation can entail important tangible benefits for the older population in humanitarian crisis”. Further research in this regard is recommended, since “reports referring to consultation with older people affected by disasters indicate insufficient consultation”. Perhaps the most empowering solution proposed is that older people “must be included in the design of disaster response and preparedness information and be seen as a rich resource in helping any society prepare for disasters”.

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