Ice Storm Affects Elderly Oklahomans

Elderly and Disabled Oklahomans Face Challenges from Recent Winter Storms

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- As the ice thaws, and our state digs out from under piles of broken limbs, it’s important to remember our elderly and disabled friends and neighbors.

Ice and snow can be a nuisance and interrupt our daily routines, but to our friends and neighbors who are elderly or have a disability, damaged trees, cars and roofs, power outages and icy driveways, sidewalks and streets can be very dangerous.

“There are thousands of elderly and disabled Oklahomans who live alone and don’t have an adequate support system of relatives or peers to help them in times like this,” said Barbara Kidder, director, Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Adult Protective Services (APS).  “Many may try to heat their homes by inadequate or even dangerous methods. Still others may attempt to move limbs or clear debris that could cause injury.”

To help ensure those who are elderly or have a disability stay safe and warm during this inclement weather and the clean-up afterward, the OKDHS Adult Protective Services program offers these suggestions on how everyone can help their friends and neighbors.

• Check on your friends and neighbors who are elderly or have a disability and make sure they have electricity and running water.  Make sure their heating sources are safe and adequate.
• If you’ve started the process of clearing limbs from your yard, take a few moments to help out a neighbor who is elderly or has a disability. Make sure their paths are clear, and their homes aren’t damaged from falling limbs or trees. Make sure their walkways and driveways are salted and free of ice and snow.
• For some Oklahomans who are elderly or have a disability, pets are their primary, and sometimes only, sources of companionship.  When the weather gets bad, it may be difficult for them to take care of their furry friends. Help them keep their companions safe by not letting them stay outside too long and making sure they have adequate food, water and shelter.
• Before you run to the store to stock up on food, ask your elderly or disabled neighbors if they need anything. If it’s difficult for you to get to the store, it’s nearly impossible and even dangerous for them.

“Isolation is the common factor in all forms of adult abuse and neglect,” said Kidder. “By keeping Oklahomans who are elderly or disabled connected with the community, we help keep them safe and healthy. Just a few minutes of your time can make a big difference.”

For information about resources for the elderly or disabled in your area, call the 211 information line. To report abuse or neglect, contact the Adult Abuse hotline at 1-800-522-3511. 

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