Proposal Presented for the Master Plan For Aging (#99)
Disclaimer
Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.
Summary
Develop and provide emergency preparedness training, to all emergency personnel, state employees and staff members, that interact with individuals, of all ages, with developmental disabilities. These training materials must adequately address a plan of action, for individuals with disabilities, in the case of an emergency.
Justification
Aging individuals and individuals with disabilities are more susceptible to harm, during an emergency. It is essential that emergency plans are available in residences, living facilities, and communities to account for the needs of individuals aging and of those with disabilities to mitigate harm. This proactive approach will help create safe plans of action, so that all parties involved are informed on what to do during an emergency, to ensure the safety of the target populations.
Full Proposal
At the peak of an emergency, people with disabilities often face significant challenges and barriers in obtaining appropriate and timely assistance, in some instances life-threatening.
- Develop and provide emergency preparedness training, materials, and resources focused on ensuring that the needs of people with disabilities of all ages are included in planning and are able to be adequately addressed in emergency situations.
- Target audience for training to include emergency management personnel, state employ sees working with individuals with disabilities of all ages and staff of community-based organizations which provide services for the disability and aging communities.
MPA Council Commentary
This proposal is categorized as near-term and is currently being implemented at DHSES. State agency partners can continue to engage with emergency management personnel and build off existing partnerships.