How Seniors Can Prepare for Hurricanes in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
We are heading into the most intense part of Florida’s weather. Hurricanes. It’s hard enough for younger individuals to prepare, and evacuate when a hurricane is on the horizon. But, imagine the different complications that could arise for your senior loved one. But, with a little planning, seniors and their loved ones can be better prepared. So, keep reading to find out the top 5 ways how seniors can prepare for Hurricanes in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
1.) Create a Network:
One of the first things you can do to prepare your elderly loved ones ahead of a natural disaster, such as a hurricane is to create a strong network. This network could include neighbors, relatives, friends, and co-workers to aid in case of an emergency. Be sure to discuss their needs, and make sure everyone knows how to operate necessary equipment, and knows about their medical history.
2.) Keep an Extra Supply of Medications:
You should also help prepare your loved ones personal medical supply kit. This kit should include two week worth of medication, and other medical supplies. It should also include hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and over-the-counter drugs. In addition, keep specialized items ready, including extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen, catheters, and food for services animals are all prepare ahead of time.
3.) Stock up on Home Goods:
Ahead of any natural disaster, your loved one should have different home goods stocked. These items include: canned food, non-perishables, gallons of water (More than 1 gallon person/day), and hygiene products. Another good idea is to also keep a small lightweight suitcase or duffel bag ready with comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, rain gear, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
4.) Keep Important Documents Safe:
Be sure to gather all your senior loved one’s documents such as insurance policies, advanced healthcare directives, legal documents, social security cards, birth and marriage certificates, passports, and a list of phone numbers. Next, be sure to put these items in a waterproof container, and store them in a safe, easy to access spot within the home.
5.) Make Arrangements with a Shelter:
Lastly, with any natural disaster, there is a risk of evacuation. So, if this occurs, it’s important that your loved one has a place to go. Whether this is a shelter, or another person’s home, it’s important to make a plan, and go over it with them ahead of time, in the event something would occur.
Natural disasters are an inevitable part of the world, so it’s important that you are prepared at all times. So, take into account these 5 easy ways how seniors can prepare for hurricanes. But, if you have any questions regarding respite care vs. hospice care, or other home care services, please call our office at 561-440-2273 for our Lake Worth office, and 561-282-6106 for our Palm Beach Gardens office.
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