Disaster Planning For Older Adults

How prepared are you and your older family members for a disaster?

Do you know what to do if a severe thunderstorm, earthquake, hurricane, tornado or blizzard strikes your neighborhood? Planning ahead for such emergencies is critical for families of older adults – especially if they care for people with chronic illnesses, physical disabilities, or Alzheimer's disease. Knowing what to do in a crisis could save the lives of and prevent injuries to the people you care about.

BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

Set aside space in your kitchen or basement for non-perishable "emergency only" supplies. If the older adults you care for doesn't live with you help them collect and store their own necessities.

The American Red Cross recommends these emergency essentials:

• 3 to 6 day supply of water – one gallon per person per day
• Canned or packaged food that doesn't need heating
• Can opener
• Flashlights
• Portable radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and non-prescription medicines

NECESSITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC ILLNESSES

If your parent suffers from health problems add the following items to your "emergency only" supply list:

• Diabetes testing supplies and hard candy
• Adult diapers and change of clothing
• Oxygen supplies
• Batteries for hearing aids and other medical devices
• Identification bracelets for people diabetes or medication allergies
• List of prescription medications
• Physicians' phone numbers

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FOR PEOPLE WITH ALZHEIMER'S AND OTHER MEMORY DISORDERS

If your parent becomes frightened, anxious or agitated during a storm hold her hand, give her a hug, and tell her that everything is going to be all right. Make sure your relative has a medical identification bracelet. Have a recent picture of your relative available in case your family is evacuated and you become separated.

NURSING HOME DISASTER PLANS

If you have a relative who lives in a nursing home you may be concerned about her safety in an emergency situation. Federal law requires all nursing homes to have a written emergency plan. Facilities must also provide mandatory staff training in emergency procedures, and pass an annual inspection and surprise drill. Ask the nursing home administrator to see the home's emergency plan and find out where residents are taken during an evacuation.

EMERGENCY PLANNING PAYS OFF

Most natural disasters strike with little or no warning. With a bit of planning and preparation you and your older family members will be able to withstand most emergencies safely and securely.