by Cynthia Germain

Let’s talk disaster preparedness. It’s more than just a first aid kit on the shelf or a blanket in the car during the winter months. As we step into 2025, one of the most important resolutions we could make this year is ensuring we’re prepared for the unexpected, and being ready is especially critical for older adults.

The FEMA Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults lays out a clear and simple approach to take charge of your safety in the new year. By focusing on three steps—assessing your needs, making a plan, and engaging your support network—you can face emergencies with confidence.

As the world continues to experience unpredictable weather patterns, extreme conditions, and new challenges, the need to be prepared has never been greater. And while everyone can benefit from emergency planning, older adults often face unique hurdles that make preparedness essential.

Managing chronic conditions or relying on medications means that even a brief disruption can have serious consequences. Emergency planning ensures that essential supplies are on hand and backup care is arranged. And this is not just a consideration for us but for our four-legged family members. Planning for their needs and saftety during emergencies is key.

In addition, evacuating quickly isn’t always simple. For older adults, mobility limitations can complicate even basic steps, making it crucial to identify accessible options ahead of time. Living alone or being geographically isolated can delay the help you need so establishing a support network of family, friends, neighbors, and caregivers ensures you have people to rely on in a crisis.

There’s something empowering about starting a new year with a plan. The FEMA Guide makes it easy to get started:

Step 1: Assess Your Needs – Identify the risks in your community and evaluate your personal needs. Think about medical requirements, mobility, and how a disruption might affect your daily life.

Step 2: Make a Plan – Build an emergency kit, map out evacuation routes, and ensure important documents are stored safely. Involve friends, family, and caregivers to ensure everyone knows their role.

Step 3: Engage Your Support Network – Share your plan, practice it together, and keep your connections strong. In times of crisis, a helping hand can be the difference between danger and safety.

In the wake of past disasters, FEMA has highlighted the power of community. One story recounts three older women who weathered a tornado by staying connected through a three-way phone call. When two of the women’s homes were damaged, the third provided shelter. Their experience underscores a simple truth—disaster preparedness isn’t just about supplies, it’s about people.

Visit Ready.gov and take control of the new year, one plan at a time.