September is National Disaster Preparedness Month, and a great time to help seniors put an emergency plan in place.
Tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters arise quickly, and though it is essential for all of us to have an emergency plan in place, it’s extremely important for seniors, who may be challenged with mobility or chronic health concerns. Since September is National Preparedness Month, it is the ideal opportunity to make sure the seniors you love are well-equipped when it comes to disaster preparedness or another potential emergency. Taking these three steps is an easy starting point.
- Put together 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 relay that information to the senior’s family and friends. Put together a list of contact information for each person who ought to be informed, and then make sure everyone has a copy of the list. The plan must also detail an evacuation protocol, and who will assist the senior with evacuating the premises, if necessary.
- Create a natural disaster supply kit. The CDC advises the following items be stored together in an easily-accessible location to be utilized in the event of a crisis:
- Water, nonperishable groceries (including pet food if applicable), and medications to last for at least 3 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 paperwork in a waterproof container (see below)
- Fire extinguisher
- Assemble important documents. In an emergency, the very last thing you will want to do is scramble to find necessary paperwork. Put copies of the following documents in a waterproof box or bag:
- Information with regards to medical needs and history, medications taken, healthcare providers, etc. (the CDC has furnished this simple template)
- Insurance cards and photo ID
- Will, living will, power of attorney, etc.
- List of any food and/or medication allergies
- Contact details for family members and friends who should always be alerted during an emergency
Working with the home health care experts at Absolute Companion Care is an excellent way to ensure the elderly will be well cared for if there is a natural disaster or other emergencies. We are prepared and proactive, with a plan in place for providing the care needed for seniors every day of the year, rain or shine, keeping family and friends informed about any and all concerns at all times.
Get in touch with our team of in-home care professionals for additional disaster preparedness tips and resources, or to arrange for a no-cost consultation in the familiarity of home to understand more about how we can help the older adults you love remain healthy, safe, and thriving. You can contact us any time at 410-357-9640 to learn about professional senior care in Phoenix, MD and the surrounding areas