👴👵 Seniors & Identity — Easy Read
This is the Easy Read version. Words are simple. Sentences are short.
Why This Matters
Many older adults need help in emergencies.
But many do not think they need help.
They may ignore messages that use the word “disability.”
🗣️ How to Ask for Help
The Old Way (Does Not Work Well)
❌ “Are you disabled? Do you need special help?”
Many seniors say “no” and miss help.
The Better Way
✅ Ask about what they do. Not who they are.
Instead of: “Do you have a disability?”
Ask: “Do you need help with stairs?”
Ask: “Do you use medical equipment?”
✅ Good Questions to Ask
Ask about specific needs:
- “Do you have trouble walking long distances?”
- “Do you use oxygen or other medical equipment?”
- “Do you need help reading small text?”
- “Do you have trouble hearing phone alerts?”
- “Do you take daily medication?”
- “Do you need help climbing stairs?”
Why This Works
People say “yes” to action questions.
They say “no” to identity labels.
Example:
- Ask “disability” → 20% say yes.
- Ask “trouble with stairs” → 45% say yes.
You reach more people who need help.
🤝 Trusted Messengers
Seniors trust people they know.
They trust those people more than government alerts.
Who Seniors Trust
1. 🏠 Senior Centers Regular contact. Familiar staff. Known place. Post info at events and on bulletin boards.
2. ⛪ Faith Groups Regular attendance. Trusted leaders. Share at services and through bulletins.
3. 🥗 Meals-on-Wheels Daily contact. Trusted relationship. Drivers can share printed guides.
4. 🏥 Home Health Services Regular home visits. Trusted caregivers. Add emergency prep to care plans.
5. 💊 Pharmacies Monthly contact. Know medication needs. Include prep tips with prescriptions.
👥 The Power of 3 Network
What It Is
Three people who can help you in an emergency.
Why Three?
One person may be away.
One person may also be hurt.
Three gives you backup.
Choose Your Three People
- At least one neighbor (lives close).
- At least one family member or friend.
- People you trust.
- People who trust you.
What to Share With Them
- Spare key to your home.
- List of your medications.
- Emergency contact numbers.
- Location of medical equipment.
- Where you keep important papers.
What They Will Do for You
- Check on you when alerts happen.
- Help you evacuate if needed.
- Get medication if stores close.
- Share information if power is out.
📵 Low-Tech Backup Plans
Many seniors use smart home devices.
These fail when power goes out.
Rule: Every tech tool needs a non-tech backup.
Backup Plan Examples
Voice-activated lights → Keep flashlights in easy spots.
Medical alert button → Write down key phone numbers.
Medication reminders → Keep a paper schedule.
Internet phone → Keep cell phone charged.
Electric garage door → Learn the manual release.
TV for alerts → Get a battery-powered radio.
👂 Audio Alerts for Older Ears
Older ears need different types of audio.
What to Do
- Speak at 100–120 words per minute.
- Pause for 2 seconds between sentences.
- Use one clear voice only.
- Avoid background music.
- Repeat important info 2–3 times.
Audio Script Example
Attention.
This is an emergency alert.
Heavy snow is coming tonight.
Heavy snow is coming tonight.
Stay home after 6 PM.
Stay home after 6 PM.
👓 Print Materials for Older Eyes
Older eyes need clear print.
Rules for Print
- Font size: 18pt minimum for body text.
- Critical info: 28pt minimum.
- Use black text on white paper.
- Use sans-serif fonts (Arial, Verdana).
- Use 1.5 line spacing.
- Use matte paper (not glossy).
One Idea Per Line
❌ Bad: “Leave the building right away using the nearest exit, taking your emergency kit and medication with you, and go to the meeting point at the parking lot.”
✅ Good: Leave now.
Use the nearest exit.
Take your medication.
Go to the parking lot.
🗂️ What to Do This Week
For Seniors
- Choose your Power of 3.
- Talk to them.
- Give them your information.
- Practice your plan.
For Emergency Managers
Week 1: Find senior centers and trusted groups in your area.
Week 2: Contact them. Share your mission.
Week 3: Create simple guides (18pt font, black on white).
Week 4: Share guides through trusted messengers.
📞 Power of 3 Contact Sheet
Print this. Fill it in.
Your Name: _______
Person 1: Name: _____ Phone: _________
Person 2: Name: _____ Phone: _________
Person 3: Name: _____ Phone: _________
My Medications:
My Doctor: _____ **Doctor Phone:** _________
Last Updated: _______
💡 The main rule: Focus on what people need. Not what you call them.
You will reach more people. More people will get the help they need.