SPRING GROVE, PA — In a proactive effort to arm older Pennsylvanians with the necessary tools for emergency situations, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and the Department of Aging, in collaboration with the York County Office of Emergency Management, recently hosted a vital workshop at Windy Hill on the Campus Senior Center. This initiative is part of the broader “Preparing Together – Are You Ready PA?” program, designed to equip senior citizens with personalized emergency plans.
Director Randy Padfield of PEMA opened the event by stressing the critical nature of personal preparedness. He remarked, “Personal preparedness is the key to readiness when dealing with disasters that affect your home or family.” This tailored approach takes into account the unique needs of older adults, who often face additional challenges during emergencies, such as reliance on medical equipment and mobility constraints.
The workshop, which featured insights from notable speakers like Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich and Windy Hill on the Campus Senior Center Executive Director Jenna Lawrence, underscored the pressing need for older adults to have an actionable emergency plan. Kavulich highlighted, “When an emergency occurs and older adults must evacuate their homes, seconds count for them and their loved ones to get to a safe place.” He urged seniors to devise a plan now, ensuring crucial items such as medications and essential documents are quickly accessible.
The backdrop to this initiative is the Shapiro Administration’s “Aging Our Way, PA,” a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan aimed at fostering inclusive communities that support older residents. This plan’s emphasis on preparedness reflects a growing recognition of the challenges posed by a rapidly aging population. With over 3.5 million residents aged 65 and older, and a rapidly increasing segment aged 85 and above, Pennsylvania stands at a critical juncture.
A PEMA-led study revealed a concerning statistic: 74% of older Pennsylvanians currently lack an emergency plan. This shortfall not only jeopardizes the safety of these individuals but also places a burden on family, friends, and emergency services. The “Preparing Together” program seeks to address this gap by providing resources and training to ensure that senior citizens are not left vulnerable when disaster strikes.
September, recognized as National Preparedness Month and National Senior Center Month, offers a timely reminder for all Pennsylvanians to assess their readiness for emergencies. The Ready PA initiative encourages everyone to be informed, be prepared, and be involved, reinforcing the message that preparedness is a communal responsibility.
The workshop at Windy Hill signifies a critical step towards safeguarding the well-being of Pennsylvania’s senior community. By fostering awareness and providing practical tools, the state aims to mitigate the risks faced by older adults during emergencies, ensuring they can face any crisis with confidence and security.
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