National Preparedness Month: The Perfect Time to Create a Disaster Plan for Seniors

Tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and various other natural disasters develop suddenly, and although it’s necessary for all of us to have a disaster plan established, it’s extremely vital for senior loved ones, who are often challenged with mobility or chronic health issues. Since September is National Preparedness Month, it is the perfect opportunity to make sure the seniors you cherish are equipped and ready for a potential natural disaster. Taking these three steps is an easy starting place.

• Put together an emergency plan. This should include designating 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. Put together a list of contact information for each individual who ought to be informed, and make sure each person has a copy of the list. The plan must also lay out an evacuation protocol, and who will assist the senior with evacuating the property if necessary.
• Put together a natural disaster supply kit. The CDC suggests the following items be stored together in an easily-accessible place for use in case of an emergency:
  • Water, nonperishable food products (plus 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 documents in a waterproof container (see below)
  • Fire extinguisher
• Assemble important paperwork. In an emergency, the last thing you will want to do is scramble to track down necessary paperwork. Place copies of the following documentation in a waterproof box or bag:
  • Details regarding medical needs and history, medications taken, medical care 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 information for loved ones and friends who should always be alerted during an emergency

Partnering with a professional home care agency, like Compassionate Nursing Services, is a great way to ensure older adults will be well cared for in the event of a natural disaster or some 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 members up to date about any and all concerns at all times.

Connect with our team of in-home care professionals for additional tips and resources, and to arrange for a complimentary consultation in the comfort of home. For more information about how we can help the older adults you love stay healthy, secure, and thriving, contact us any time at 314-432-4312 to learn about our top-rated St. Louis senior care and the communities we serve.