As the official hurricane season began in June with predictions of 17 to 25 named storms, 8 to 13 of which could become hurricanes, and 4 to 7 potentially reaching major hurricane status, the Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) is bringing into sharp focus the impact this could have on seniors. The Association’s concern echoes the theme of this year’s World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which places heavy emphasis on the elderly in emergencies.
BARP President Marilyn Rice-Bowen said that older people living on their own, with severe health challenges or mobility issues, could find themselves among the most vulnerable in times of disaster due to limited access to aid, medical care, support services, and evacuation.
Rice-Bowen noted that other threats loom large for the island’s aging population, this time from climate-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, dengue fever, respiratory infections, and asthma.
“The health of our members is a top priority for BARP,” the president said. “Throughout the year, we host workshops and screening clinics with key partners, and we also liaise with the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs to bring these issues to their attention and collaborate with them to find workable solutions,” she said.
Through its discount partnerships with businesses across the island, members can get some relief from the rising cost of goods and services which they may need to make them more secure during the current hurricane season.
In the next few weeks and throughout the hurricane season, BARP will run an education campaign for members on the challenges presented by disasters.
“We cannot stress enough the importance of preparation,” Rice-Bowen said. “We encourage our members to get familiar with shelters close to them, top up medications, store water and food, and keep important documents in a safe and dry place.”
She added: “We also call on family, friends, and neighbors to do their part in protecting the elderly, not only during times of disasters but all through the year.”
