National Preparedness Month is the ideal time to discuss natural disaster safety with your senior loved one.
Tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and various other natural disasters occur suddenly, and although it’s important 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 problems. Since September is National Preparedness Month, it is an ideal chance to ensure the seniors you cherish are equipped with a natural disaster safety plan and ready for a potential emergency. Taking these three steps is an easy starting place.
- Establish an emergency plan. This should consist of assigning a primary person (or multiple people) who can be responsible for checking up on the older adult during an emergency, and who will then relay that information to the senior’s family members. Create a list of contact information for each person who should be advised, and make sure everyone has a copy of the list. The plan should likewise explain an evacuation process, and who will help the senior with evacuating the property if required.
- Create a disaster supply kit. The CDC advises these 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 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
- Collect important records. In an emergency, the very last thing you will want to do is scramble to track down necessary paperwork. Place copies of the following paperwork in a waterproof box or bag:
- Information concerning medical needs and history, medications taken, health care providers, etc. (the CDC has provided 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 loved ones and friends who should always be alerted during an emergency
Working with an experienced home care agency, like Hearts at Home In-Home Care, a provider of professional caregivers Kansas City area families rely on, is an excellent way to ensure seniors will be well taken care of in case of a natural disaster or any other emergency. We are 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 and friends updated about any and all concerns at all times.
Get in touch with our team of caregivers in Kansas City and surrounding areas for further tips and resources to learn more about our top-rated senior care. For more information about how we can help the older adults you cherish remain healthy, safe, and thriving, contact us any time at 913-440-4209 to arrange for a free of charge consultation within the familiarity of home.