They have values which “transcend passing fads and pressure” and “possess the wisdom of distilled pain and joy.” 

This is how President Jimmy Carter described grandparents when he proclaimed the first Sunday after Labor Day to be National Grandparents Day in 1979. 

Every family is different.  Some children interact daily with grandparents while others only see theirs on special occasions.  Whatever the circumstance, the role they play in our lives is a vital one—offering unconditional love and support.

When considering ways to return support, The American Red Cross has guidance that may help.

The American Red Cross recommends that senior citizens create a personal support network made up of several individuals who check on you in an emergency to ensure your wellness and to give assistance if needed. 

There are seven important items to discuss and implement with a personal support network:

1) Make arrangements, prior to an emergency, for your support network to immediately check on you after a disaster and, if needed, offer assistance.

2) Exchange important keys.

3) Show them where you keep emergency supplies.

4) Share copies of your relevant emergency documents, evacuation plans and emergency health information card.

5) Agree on and practice methods for contacting each other in an emergency. Do not count on the telephones working.

6) You and your personal support network should always notify each other when you are going out of town and when you will return.

7) The relationship should be mutual. You have a lot to contribute! Learn about each other’s needs and how to help each other in an emergency.

You can work with a grandparent to develop a before/during/after plan in the event of a disaster. Additionally, the Red Cross has developed an Older Adult Preparedness Checklist which can be used for quick reference beforehand.

Also, keep in mind that after an event, a grandparent may need more support. Research shows that older adults are more vulnerable after a disaster. 

For more information, The Red Cross disaster preparedness pamphlet for seniors by seniors can be found here.