LOS ANGELES (CNS) – Following the January wildfires and recent extreme weather events, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Tuesday called for the creation of an emergency registry system for older adults and people with disabilities to increase emergency and evacuation preparedness.
The board requested a report in 120 days from director of Aging and Disabilities on the feasibility of creating such a registry, working in conjunction with the county CEO, fire chief, director of the Office of Emergency Management and departments of Public Health, Children and Family Services, Public Social Services and other relevant agencies.
Tuesday’s motion by Supervisors Janice Hahn and Kathryn Barger stated the county is home to one of the largest populations of older adults and people with disabilities in the nation. In 2020, the demographic included about 2 million residents, with the number expected to reach nearly 2.5 million by 2030, making up 26% of the total population. Citing the California Department of Finance’s Demographic Research Unit, the motion stated “the county’s population aged 60 and older is projected to grow substantially in the coming decades.”
“Many of these individuals may face heightened risks dangers during emergencies and disasters due to mobility challenges, wandering risks, medical needs, communication barriers, or other access and functional needs,” according to the motion. “Several states and local jurisdictions have explored or implemented volunteer disaster registries to enhance preparedness and response efforts for vulnerable populations such as older adults and people with disabilities. Such a registry can play a vital role in ensuring these populations are adequately supported during emergencies.
“… Ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations during emergencies is a critical responsibility of the County.”
The report is also expected to include estimated costs, potential funding opportunities, implementation barriers and timelines to move forward with recommendations from the study.
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