Disaster Response Information

The Alzheimer’s Association is committed to providing service to our constituents and our Southern California community.

Local resources for those affected by Alzheimer's or dementia who have been impacted by the recent wild fires include:

If you’re able to access the internet, visit the following website to find practical tips and resources for providing care to those who have Alzheimer’s and dementia during such times: https://alz.org/help-support/caregiving/safety/in-a-disaster

Disaster Response Tactics
A person with dementia may be easily agitated or afraid. Tell them you are there to help.

To move a person from danger and help keep them calm in evacuation situations:

 - Avoid physical force or restraint. 
 - Be creative rather than rely on reality.
 - Provide one-on-one instruction.
 - Provide step-by-step instructions using simple language.
 - Try to relocate the person to a quiet place. 
 - Use distraction by giving the person a simple task.
 - Ensure the person is watched, at all times, to prevent wandering
 - Use the TALK Tactics: Take it slow. Ask simple questions. Limit reality checks. Keep eye contact.

24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900
Our 24/7 Helpline continues to be fully operational to help with emergency placement, local resources, wandering issues, communication tips, behaviors and overall basic information.
 
MedicAlert+Safe Return:
MASR is a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals with Alzheimer's or a related dementia who wander or have a medical emergency.
We provide 24/7 assistance, no matter when or where the person is reported missing.

Registration can be done at www.medicalert.org/safereturn or 888.572.8566.

General Information and Resources:
- Los Angeles County Fire Department www.fire.lacounty.gov (includes listing of evacuation centers)

- Cal Fire Website or call 530.538.7826 (includes listing of evacuation centers)

- Cal Trans www.dot.ca.gov

- American Red Cross or call 800.733.2767

- California Government Wildfire Resources

FEMA Assistance:
FEMA offers Individual Assistance after a disaster to help begin your recovery. Their Individual Assistance page offers you a look at the steps and options available to you.

Registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. This is the quickest way to register for FEMA assistance.

If you are unable to access the internet, you can also call at 800.621.3362.

Legal and Insurance Information:
California Department of Insurance Consumer Services
Assistance with expediting insurance claims. Services available at the Local Assistance Centers in all counties at 
www.insurance.ca.gov or 800.927.9331.

Local Support Groups:
Please call our Helpline at 800.272.3900 to get the latest information on current and/or cancelled programs and support groups in your area.
 
Our thoughts are with all of the families that are impacted.