The Calm Before the Storm

Tips for the Elderly (and those who love them)

Very few of us enjoy planning for difficult situations. Planning a party or holiday is one thing, but planning how to survive a natural disaster is something else entirely. If you’re like most of us, you’ll deal with that “tomorrow.” This may be especially true if you have the responsibility for caring for a loved one with limited mobility, a neurological condition, Alzheimer’s Disease, or another type of dementia. You already have your hands full, and the stress of a “what if” can be overwhelming. Advanced planning and consideration of your unique circumstances will make you better prepared to help yourself and your loved ones when a disaster does occur. With hurricane season upon us (June 1 – November 30), now is the time to plan.

Prepare Your Emergency Kit

When a storm is imminent, gas lines are often long and shelves are empty, so be sure to have your emergency kit stocked and ready. In addition to a basic emergency kit (which you can find here), these are additional things to consider.

Critical Items:

Try to have available and, in advance, the following in your kit:

• A 7-day supply of medications, with copies of prescriptions. Keep these medications in their original bottles for easy reference.

• A list of your doctors and their contact information

• Medical identification and important health records

• Mobility aids such as extra canes or walkers

• Emergency contacts and a list of local emergency shelters

• Flashlights, extra batteries, and a portable phone charger

Things to Consider:

Whether it is the flurry of activity for preparation or if you do need to evacuate your home and move to a hotel/shelter/family member's home, include "comfort" items in your emergency kit. Some ideas include:

• A portable DVD player and some movies he or she enjoys

• Some favorite books

• A favorite possession

• Pictures that will bring back happy memories

• Soothing music, games or simple puzzles

• Clothes that are loved and comfortable

• Favorite nonperishable foods or snacks

These items should already be in your emergency kit or, if this is not possible, include a list of what you would want to take so it is easy to "grab and go" if an evacuation becomes necessary.

Plan for a Substitute Caregiver

In case you or your "regular" caregiver is not available prepare a checklist to help someone who is not familiar with your loved one. Include preferred name, medications, favorite activities, mobility challenges, and any other information that will allow an unfamiliar person to have an easy-to-understand overview of how to best help your loved one.

If You Stay:

Be Prepared to Be Without Power & Professional Help

Be prepared to be without power for an extended period of time. If you receive professional care services, individuals may not be able to reach you if roads are flooded or inaccessible. Begin by creating an inventory of your medical devices and medications that require electricity. Review the manuals for your devices or consult your healthcare provider for guidance on using them during a power outage. Some equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, might offer battery or manual options, while your pharmacist can advise on how to store refrigerated medications safely. This list will be the foundation of your emergency plan.

Backup power is a game-changer during an outage. Small devices, such as nebulizers or CPAP machines, can run on battery packs, so keep extras charged and ready. Portable power stations are another excellent option, providing hours of power for essential equipment. For larger devices or households with multiple needs, a home generator can be a lifesaver. Generators can sustain power for days, but safety is key—ensure they are only used outdoors and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and air vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and follow all manufacturer guidelines.

Medications such as some nebulizer solutions and injectable asthma treatments must stay cold to remain effective. Preparing a cooler with ice packs can keep them at the correct temperature temporarily. Use a thermometer to ensure the cooler stays below 46°F (8°C).

If You Go

Research shelters in your area for individuals with special needs, hotels, and other short-term housing options in case you need to evacuate.

For Our Current Patients

If you are receiving physical, occupational or speech therapy services with LifeCare, our office will close for a tropical storm or hurricane warning. Your therapist will reach out to you directly to check in with you before and after a storm, but we may not be able to reach you, whether this is due to road conditions in your neighborhood or ours. We will do our best to keep in touch and always call "911" if you have an emergency.

Great Resources

Here are some additional documents and links that can help you with your preparations.

Special Needs Registry State of Florida

The Florida Department of Health, in coordination with its county health departments and each local emergency management agency in the state, developed a registry for persons with special needs to register with their local emergency management agency to receive assistance during a disaster. The statewide registry provides first responders with valuable information to prepare for disasters or other emergencies. Find your local county emergency department and register here.

Florida Office of Emergency Management

While I hope you find this information helpful, there is much more to do to be prepared. The State of Florida Department of Emergency Management offers a great overview of all the basics for creating a Hurricane Plan. Learn more here.

The Calm Before the Storm: Family Conversation About Disaster Planning, Caregiving, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.

A wonderful resource with detailed planning information specific for persons caring for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia.

cmme_storm.pdf

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