(Snippets from the frontline)
Mother Nature vs. vulnerable seniors
We’ve seen it with hurricanes in Florida, flooding in Texas, and fires in California. Vulnerable seniors perish. Why?
Does their frailty make them less responsive to surrounding danger? Or are they forgotten in the calamity? Forgotten?
These disasters, like earthquakes here in California, occur suddenly with little notice. First responders are already busy, so preparedness must be at the neighborhood level.
So what can we do to assure elder senior safety?
Remember “Neighborhood Watch?” Let’s reinstitute this idea and get to know our neighbors. Notice if elder seniors have mobility problems, or rely on electricity to maintain support devices (like oxygen machines, breathing apparatus, etc.).
In the event of a disaster and once your own environment is secured, have a team ready and prioritize those nearby who have debilities. They should be checked first as their survival might depend on your quick action.
Seniors did not forget us: Fighting to defend our nation, raising children, and leading us after WWII and the Korean War.
We cannot forget them.
Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D.
As usual, very pertinent reminder of our collective responsibility to our elders. You are truly our greatest advocate here in Santa Clarita (and beyond) for ensuring the independence, dignity, and quality of life for our elders. You continue our effort that building an elder-friendly community is on-going requiring a constant focus.
Keep up the great work Doctor. You deserve to be “Man of the Year” here in Santa Clarita this year and every year.