Storms Ahead!
Dear Caregivers,
As tropical storm Idalia bears down on Florida this week, it’s a good time to take a few moments to refresh your knowledge about the risks of big storms, and how to protect yourself if necessary. Please refer to the Department of Elder Affairs website for updates.
Here is some guidance on weathering a storm:
Medical Needs and Treatments:
Take steps to ensure that your loved one’s medical needs are met and treatments are not disrupted:
Be sure you have ample supply of any medical equipment and supplies needed for you or your loved one, such as oxygen, nebulizer supplies, colostomy or incontinence supplies, and dressings.
Make sure you have your own medical “first aid” kit, as well as no-wash hand sanitizer/cleanser.
Make plans for any special care you might need to store or dispence your loved one’s medication (for example, if their insulin needs to be kept in a cool container).
Carry information regarding your loved one’s medical conditions and current treatments with you.
If your loved one has specific dietary restrictions or preferences, do what you can to have a supply of key foods or drinks available.
Evacuation and Transportation
Learn about your community’s emergency plans and plan your escape route. If you can safely stay out of the path of the storm by staying with family or friends, do so. Know the location of the nearest evacuation shelter that can accommodate your needs in terms of medical health, safety, and any pets you or your loved one may have.
In case you have to evacuate your home quickly, be prepared by keeping the following tips in mind:
Identify exactly what medical and comfort supplies you will need, and figure out how you will move the supplies to your evacuation location. Consider getting air cushions that will fit the beds at the facility, or purchase an air mattress with a frame.
You may be sitting down for extended periods of time, so consider bringing a chair pad that will minimize pressure to your skin and provide additional comfort. Be sure to pack adequate sheets, blankets and small pillows.
Obtain and bring safety items such as flashlights, a battery operated radio and clock, cell phones, and sturdy comfortable footwear to prevent falls.
Bring personal hygiene items and comfortable clothing to last for at least three days. Also bring water and towels for bathing.
Bring insurance policy information such as your insurance for your home and automobile; prepare a list of emergency contacts such as family members, friends, and doctors; and legal documents such as deeds, Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will, and Health Care Surrogate, and “Yellow Do Not Resuscitate” orders.
Share your plans with a relative or friend outside the area. Call them after the disaster and let them know that you are all right and where you will stay if your home is damaged.
Notify the power company if you are dependent on electricity for medical equipment (such as oxygen concentration) to be sure power is available on your return to your home.
Your Disaster Checklist:
It is critical to have a plan for times like these. Here’s a checklist to follow:
Assemble a disaster supplies kit.
Arrange for someone to check on you.
Plan and practice the best escape routes from your home.
Plan for transportation if you need to evacuate to a shelter.
Find the safe places to shelter in your home for different kinds of emergencies.
Have a plan to be able to send a signal that you need help.
Place a list of post-emergency phone numbers near your phone.
Teach those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment. Be sure they will be able to reach you.
Also, below are some tips from the Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center:
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“There’s no harm in hoping for the best as long as you’re prepared for the worst.””
— Stephen King
