Summer in South Florida is here and that means two things: afternoon storms and hurricane season. While it’s always good to be prepped and ready to go if the weather gets particularly bad or unsafe quickly, for seniors it is even more crucial.
Seniors often require a lot more planning and preparation, especially when it comes to medical needs so having a plan in place for if and when a storm strikes may be the difference between life and death.
Below are some helpful hurricane and storm prep tips for seniors, their loved ones, and caregivers so everyone can be prepared and safe this hurricane season.
Have An Emergency Plan in Place
While it’s always a good idea for seniors to have emergency plans in place, especially if they are living on their own, in the event of a hurricane or bad storm having a plan on paper is vital.
When coming up with an emergency plan, it’s important to consider any unique needs or limitations you may have, including medications, medical devices, or even needing assistance getting out of your house should an evacuation be required. Should you need assistance, it is important to have a contact person in place. This person could be a friend, family member, loved one, or an at-home caregiver.
Whoever you choose, it is important that this person is aware of your requirements or needs ahead of time so that they can be prepared on their end as well.
Stock Up On Supplies
When it comes to stocking up on supplies, the basic essentials are always important. This includes batteries, water, and non-perishable food. For seniors though, stocking up on supplies also means making sure that you have any and all medication and medical supplies you may need in the event that the storm makes it difficult to get out of the house for several days.
While the rule of thumb when it comes to stocking up on storm supplies is to have enough supplies to last at least 3 days, it can never hurt to have more.
Secure Your Property
To minimize potential damage during a hurricane or storm, it is important that you take the proper measures to secure your property. This may mean trimming trees, putting up storm shutters, securing any outdoor furniture, and, if needed, creating a safe room in your house away from all windows.
Since it may be difficult for some seniors to perform these tasks on their own, it is important to have someone that you can call when the time comes to secure your home from a storm.
Arrange For Transportation and Assistance
If you are someone that struggles to get around on your own and enlists the help of a loved one or at-home caregiver, it is important that you have made arrangements with that person to help you out during a storm, especially if you will need to evacuate from your home.
Get Help With Hurricane and Storm Prep at Independence Home Health
If the person that normally helps you out may not be available, it is important to have a backup option in place in advance. Many local municipalities have emergency management agencies set up for those in need or you can also reach out to us at Independence Home Health. We offer a variety of at-home caregiver services and are ready to help you out this hurricane season!
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