Natural disasters can occur at any time and following these emergency preparedness tips for older adults will help keep them safe.
Tornadoes, hurricanes, and earthquakes, along with other natural disasters, occur suddenly, and while it’s vital for all of us to have an emergency plan in place, it is extremely important for older adults, who are often challenged with mobility or chronic health concerns. Because September is National Preparedness Month, it’s the perfect opportunity to ensure the seniors you cherish are equipped and prepared for a potential emergency. Taking these three emergency preparedness tips for older adults is an easy starting point.
- Establish an emergency plan. This should include designating a primary person (or multiple people) who can be responsible for checking up on the senior during an emergency, and who will then communicate that information to the senior’s family members. Create a list of contact information for every person who ought to be informed, and make sure each person has a copy of the list. The plan must also outline an evacuation protocol, and who will assist the senior with evacuating the property if required.
- Create a natural disaster supply kit. The CDC advises the following items be stored together in an easily-accessible place to be used in the event of an emergency:
- Water, nonperishable food products (incorporating pet food if applicable), and medications to last for no less than 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
- Duplicates of important documents in a waterproof container (see below)
- Fire extinguisher
- Gather important records. In a crisis, the very last thing you will want to do is scramble to locate necessary paperwork. Place copies of the following paperwork in a waterproof box or bag:
- Information with regards to medical needs and history, medications taken, healthcare providers, etc. (the CDC has provided this easy template)
- Insurance cards and photo ID
- Will, living will, power of attorney, etc.
- List of any food and/or medication allergies
- Contact details for loved ones and friends who should be notified during an emergency
Working with a knowledgeable, premier home care agency, like Morning Glory Home Care, is an excellent way to ensure seniors will be well cared for in the event 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, keeping family members informed of any and all concerns at all times.
Contact Morning Glory Home Care, Alton senior care providers for the surrounding areas, to arrange for a no-cost consultation in the familiarity of home. You can call us any time at 618-667-8400 to learn more about how we can help the seniors you love remain healthy, safe, and thriving by providing emergency preparedness tips for creating a disaster plan.