Emergency preparedness for older adults is important in case of a natural disaster.
Tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters arise quickly, and while it’s crucial for all of us to have an emergency plan set up, it’s extremely important for senior loved ones, who may be challenged with mobility or chronic health concerns. Since September is National Preparedness Month, it’s the perfect time to make sure the older adults you love are well-equipped and prepared for a potential emergency. Taking these three steps is a good place to start when considering emergency preparedness for seniors.
- Establish an emergency plan. This should include assigning a primary person (or multiple people) who can be responsible for checking up on the individual during a natural disaster, and who will then communicate that information to the senior’s family and friends. Put together a list of contact information for every person who must be informed, and make sure each person has a copy of the list. The plan should likewise explain an evacuation protocol, and who will help the senior with evacuating the property, if required.
- Put together an emergency supply kit. The CDC suggests the following items be stored together in an easily-accessible place for usage in the event of a crisis:
- Water, nonperishable groceries (including pet food if applicable), and medications to last for a minimum of three days
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Manual can opener
- Hand-crank or battery-powered radio
- Blanket or sleeping bag
- Change of clothing
- Wet wipes, paper towels, and hand sanitizer
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof container (see below)
- Fire extinguisher
- Gather important documents. In a crisis, the very last thing you’ll want to do is scramble to find necessary paperwork. Put copies of the following documents in a waterproof box or bag:
- Information concerning medical needs and history, medications taken, medical care providers, etc. (the CDC has furnished this easy template)
- Insurance cards and photo ID
- Will, living will, power of attorney, etc.
- Listing of any food and/or medication allergies
- Contact details for loved ones and friends who must be alerted during an emergency
Partnering with an experienced home care agency, like Anthem Home Care, is a great way to make sure the seniors in your life will be well cared for in case of a natural disaster or some other emergency. We’re prepared and proactive, with a plan in place for providing the care needed for seniors each and every day of the year, rain or shine, always keeping family and friends informed about any and all concerns.
Get in touch with our team of in-home care professionals for additional tips and resources, or to arrange for a complimentary consultation within the comfort of home. For more information about how we can help the seniors you cherish stay healthy, and secure, call us any time at 361-643-2323 to learn about our professional home care in Ingleside and the surrounding areas.