LANCASTER, Ky. ( AIEXPRESS) – As severe winter weather approaches, it is crucial not to overlook the well-being of our elderly friends. Emergency management officials are reminding everyone to extend a helping hand to the older members of our community during this challenging time.
David East, the deputy director of emergency management in Garrard County, emphasized the importance of taking care of the elderly during this time.
As the temperatures continue to drop and more snow is on the way, this period becomes particularly important for seniors.
“We often overlook the elderly, forgetting that we will all reach that stage one day. It’s important to keep this in mind. Someday, we will rely on someone for assistance,” East emphasized.
According to East, the main objective of his agency is to facilitate and simplify your work. This can involve conducting welfare checks or assisting in the retrieval of prescriptions for the elderly.
“We want to make sure you have all the support you need, so please feel free to reach out to us on Facebook or give us a call at 792-3023. We kindly request that you refrain from calling 911 for road checks and similar matters. Instead, please use the non-emergency numbers for such situations,” East advised.
During the winter season, older individuals face numerous challenges, and East has already come to the aid of several individuals in response to their calls for assistance.
“We provided them with lunches and ensured that their heating needs were addressed. We wanted to address any concerns they had and spent some time visiting with them,” explained East.
The cold weather can pose challenges for the elderly, including difficulties with food.
Chloe, a teenager from our town, has been a true blessing to us. She took the initiative to make 40 bags filled with lunches and snacks for people in need. It’s heartwarming to see that a young person like Chloe had the thoughtfulness to reach out to us and bring these supplies.
East recommends befriending your neighbors and regularly checking in on those who may require assistance.
East suggests reaching out to elderly neighbors and introducing oneself as a nearby neighbor. Offering assistance and providing contact information can help establish a sense of community and support.
East also suggests asking specific questions like whether they need immediate help, such as running errands or ensuring their comfort. Inquiring about their well-being, including their heating system, demonstrates genuine concern for their safety and comfort.
In order to provide assistance to those in need during the cold weather, various warming shelters have been established across the entire county. These shelters include Lancaster PD, Lancaster Baptist, Forks Church, Lancaster First Assembly, and Cartersville Fire Department.
Garrard County EMA is offering transportation services for essential workers, including medical staff, EMTs, and dispatchers, to commute to and from work.
