Assisting People with Cognitive or Psychiatric Disabilities

Tips for People with Cognitive Disabilities

Before, During and After a Disaster

Practice what to do during and after a disaster. Practice leaving places where you spend time (work, home, school) until you feel comfortable and feel confident that you will know what to do during and after a disaster.

Emergency Plan

• Keep a written emergency plan with you and in several locations. Make sure your emergency plan is easy to read and understand.
• After a disaster, information often comes at you quickly. Think through ways to do things you will need to do after a disaster. Small tape recorder, calendar with room for notes and to do lists will help you remember things.
• Give copies of your written emergency plan to your personal support network buddies.

Communication

Think through what a rescuer might need to know about you and be prepared to say it briefly, or keep a written copy with you:

• I cannot read. I communicate using assistance from a communication device. I can point to simple pictures or key words which you will find in my wallet or emergency supply kit.
• I may have difficulty understanding what you are telling me, please speak slowly and use simple language.
• I forget easily. Please write down information for me.
  

Tips for People with Psychiatric Disabilities

Communication

Think through what a rescuer might need to know about you and be prepared to say it briefly, or keep a written copy with you - for example:

• I have a psychiatric disability. In an emergency I may become confused. Help me find quiet corner and I should be fine in approximately 10 minutes.
• I have a panic disorder. If I panic, give me one green pill (name of medication) located in my (purse, wallet, pocket, etc.).
• I take Lithium and my blood level needs to be checked every _____________.

Reactions

There are a number of emotional reactions that may occur or become more severe after a disaster. These reactions include: confusion, thought processing and memory difficulties, agitation, paranoia, crying, fear, panic, pacing, shouting, depression, withdrawal, irritability, anxiety, shaking and sleep disturbance.

• Think through the types of reactions you may anticipate having and plan strategies for coping with these reactions.
• Consider seeking input from your friends, family, therapist or service provider(s).
• Be prepared to have members of your personal support network offer emotional support so you can acknowledge and express feelings about the disaster.

Treatment Instructions

You may need medical assistance. You even may be hospitalized. Keep instructions with you for your care and treatment, or a copy of a durable power of attorney for health so that someone you have chosen may intervene for you.