Seniors died en masse because nursing homes refused to evacuate when 30-foot swells pummeled the coast. Others died alone as their private homes filled with dirty water. Wheelchairs were rendered useless, and blind people tried to feel their way through the water.
When the hurricane claimed so many of Louisiana?s most vulnerable ? the disabled and the elderly ? the human toll prompted Maryland and states across the country to ensure seniors and those with physical and mental disabilities never get left behind when catastrophe strikes.
“We?re talking about major disasters: What happens when the major structure of your community is crashing down?” said Carl Cameron, president of the Center for Disability and Special Needs Preparedness.
He helped the Maryland Department of Disabilities put on a summit for care workers and social organizations Wednesday to focus on those people who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Maryland is a national leader in planning for these populations, but the state has a long way to go, Cameron said.
“How do we get to people who aren?t really affiliated with anyone?” he asked. “In emergencies, there?s always an assumption that there?s a connection somewhere with a community organization or a church. That?s not always the case.”
Often people with disabilities are hard to reach because they may be living out in the community, not relying on social services or institutions for their day-to-day needs, said JoAnne Knapp, director of emergency preparedness policy for the Maryland Department of Disabilities.
“We believe the messages of preparedness are important,” Knapp said, “but it?s the actions of trusted intermediaries that are going to make a difference.”
Just as important as delivering care is making sure the person being rescued is cooperative, said Larry Hughes, a disabled Vietnam veteran and track-and-field coach. He teaches a class for first responders on rescuing disabled and isolated individuals.
