Tom Kamber, Executive Director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) and Senior Planet from AARP, shared the recent results of a new AARP tech survey among older adults, a
majority of them have not taken steps to ensure they receive information during a disaster and are more likely to be unprepared if a disaster strikes. We discussed myths about older adults and technology; they can and will embrace it if it meets their needs for entertainment and information. Tom and AARP are working to get more to use like disaster-related apps or text notifications from official national disaster resource agencies, just one in ten are using them. We spoke of basic needs in emergencies, from forced evacuation to sheltering in place and the resources available. He advises that doing anything – even if it’s just downloading an app, arranging a meeting place or buying a portable phone charger is better than doing nothing and help decrease your risk. He recommends taking advantage of free courses offered by AARP for members, caregivers and family, and making connections to help support each other.

For more information about AARP and disaster planning go to
AARP.org/DisasterPrep