The recent Joint Legislative Audit Committee and Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Management meeting highlighted the urgent need for improved disaster response strategies for older adults and individuals with disabilities in California. The discussions were sparked by the devastating impact of recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area, which disproportionately affected vulnerable populations.

Dr. Lindeman, a key speaker at the meeting, emphasized that nearly all of the 25 identified victims of the fires were either over 65 or had disabilities. This alarming trend underscores the critical challenges faced by older adults during emergencies, particularly in the initial moments of a disaster when timely evacuation is essential. Many older individuals struggle with mobility, making it difficult for them to evacuate quickly or rely on family for transportation. With over 1.3 million older Californians living alone, the need for self-reliance during evacuation orders becomes even more pressing.

The meeting also addressed the inadequacies of emergency shelters, which often lack the necessary resources to cater to the specialized needs of older adults. Medical supplies and information are frequently insufficient, leaving those with cognitive impairments particularly vulnerable. Dr. Lindeman pointed out that while some states have attempted to create voluntary registries to assist shelters in identifying residents with special needs, these efforts have faced challenges such as outdated data and low participation rates.

The aftermath of disasters poses additional hardships for older adults, who may lose their homes and financial stability. The recent spike in rents in Los Angeles County following the wildfires exacerbates the housing crisis for older individuals, many of whom are "house rich and income poor." The search for new assisted living or skilled nursing facilities becomes increasingly difficult as existing ones are overwhelmed or destroyed.

The meeting concluded with a call for state agencies to enhance coordination of services for displaced individuals, particularly older adults. It was noted that disasters can also indirectly affect older adults through power outages and rising rents, necessitating stronger protections against unfair treatment.

Looking ahead, the California Commission on Aging plans to hold a meeting in May to further discuss these issues and explore legislative or regulatory solutions to better prepare for future disasters. The urgency of these discussions reflects a growing recognition of the need to protect California's most vulnerable residents in times of crisis.