Preparing for Disasters, Assisted Living Communities Balance Protection and Engagement

Safety and independence — many older Americans and their families choose assisted living (AL) communities, or care communities, because they offer this combination of features. However, when disaster strikes, whether it is a hurricane, fire, or active shooter situation, care communities must ensure a balance between protection and engagement. “Preparedness should be part of the organizational culture, and everyone — including the residents — needs to be involved,” said Stan Szpytek, the president of Fire and Life Safety, an emergency preparedness consultant to AL communities and other organizations.