To accommodate these citizens, the Virginia Department of Emergency Servi ces identified Special Needs Shelters. Virginia points out this system works well for citizens who are fairly self sufficient. Plan and identify special needs shelters now. Work closely with volunteer agencies, the Missouri Departments of Social Services, Health and Mental Health, as well as local hospitals, to plan for disaster special medical needs sheltering. Elderly persons respond more slowly to a crisis and often don't fully understand the magnitude of their loss, injury or potential dangers.
Older citizens fear being removed from their homes.
Determine if the individual uses a hearing aid, has it available and operational. Identify yourself and why you are there. Remain calm and reassuring. If possible take eye glasses with you when evacuating. Allow the person to hold on to your upper arm during the evacuation process.