Prepare Seniors to Stay Safe in a Storm

We all worry each day about the safety of our seniors whether we are next door or far away.  We worry whether they are safe in their homes, if they are taking their medicine correctly, if they are eating, or if they are safe driving as well as a multitude of other occurrences.  Sometimes it seems like “senior care” is as much about worrying as caring.

A major worry is how they will handle a storm from Mother Nature.  It could be as small as a thunderstorm that knocks out their power or as large as a hurricane that can cause havoc.  How will they deal with the ordeal?

How well prepared is your senior to face the challenge of a “weather event”?

Tips to be prepared to weather any storm:

• Plan ahead and keep supplies on hand.  Supplies to be included are flashlights with fresh batteries instead of dangerous candles, radio, cell phone, and first aid kit.
• Prepare a safety plan that includes an evacuation strategy. Where will they go and how will they get there? Is there a safe shelter nearby?
• Keep emergency food and water on hand including a manual can opener.
• Keep a list of medications and doses, insurance card and other ID handy and up to date.
• Have a phone list of family names and addresses if someone else needs to assist them to contact you which includes their own street address in case they can’t remember it under stress.
• Keep the exterior of the home maintained to avoid damage to people or nearby structures during a storm.
• Have a plan to secure outside objects such as patio furniture, garbage cans or decorations that can be picked up by strong winds and cause damage.
• What is the process for clearing walkways if covered in snow, ice or debris to prevent injury from falls?
• Create a list and keep it updated with contact information for police, home repair companies, newspaper delivery, utilities (gas, electric, oil, phone, cable) and the local post office in case you need to contact them from a distance.
• Keep important documents secure such as insurance papers and banking information and readily accessible.
• Who will check up on your long distance loved ones after the storm to be sure they are safe and their home is habitable if you are not close by?
• Talk about what to expect in a weather event and discuss plans with your senior regularly.

Having a plan in place and supplies at the ready will help you handle the storm that is bound to arrive.

Do you have any suggestions to add to the list on things that would be helpful for others to be better prepared?  We would love to hear them today.