TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Relief workers are discovering disturbing examples of how Hurricane Charley is impacting some elderly people.
The workers say they're finding some senior citizens with mold growing on their clothes because they refuse to leave their storm-damaged homes.
The workers report finding some situations in which elderly residents are living in homes with no water, electricity or air conditioning.
The Department of Elder Affairs secretary says these seniors believe they are better off staying in their storm-damaged house than going to an emergency shelter.
Terry White says the state is concerned about their health.
White is issuing a call for help to families all over the world who have elderly relatives in storm-damaged areas. He's urging families to check on their loved ones -- and that may require a trip to Florida.
He says people shouldn't take reassurances from elderly relatives at face value.
White says these seniors are part of a tough generation and they may feel as if they can live through unsafe conditions. He says they may be afraid to ask for help, or too proud to ask.
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