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An international conference that will boost awareness of seniors’ issues in emergency preparedness and disaster response is underway in Winnipeg, Healthy Living Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, minister responsible for seniors, said today. 

 

The conference is supported by the Manitoba government in partnership with the Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization.

 

“This conference highlights the importance of integrating the contributions and needs of seniors into all areas of emergency preparedness,” said Irvin-Ross.  “This is an excellent opportunity to bring this important issue to the world stage and inspire others to take action.”

 

The invitational conference brings together experts in seniors’ issues and disaster response planning from around the world to address the needs of older adults during disasters.  The conference also explores the contributions that older people can make during emergencies.  The goal is to develop recommendations to guide effective emergency management practices for seniors.

 

Issues to be explored include identifying the special needs of vulnerable seniors during disasters such as earthquakes, flooding, droughts and fires. In an emergency, some older people may require specific assistance or services to address mobility, medical, shelter and other needs.

 

The invited experts from around the world will also examine the opportunities on how older people can participate in the planning, response or recovery phases of emergency preparedness. This approach recognizes the skills, experiences and abilities seniors can contribute to the protection and rebuilding of their communities.

 

“The Province of Manitoba is proud to partner with the Public Health Agency Canada and the World Health Organization on this important conference,” said Irvin-Ross. “It is encouraging to know these important agencies are working together to ensure the needs of seniors are addressed in emergency planning and disaster response situations.”