When a natural disaster occurs, elderly seniors are especially vulnerable. Many seniors who live alone do not have the tools and resources to get them through a storm safely. However, helping them prepare when Mother Nature strikes is paramount to senior safety. Here are some tips to help your elderly loved one stay safe during an emergency storm.

Create an Emergency Plan

When you know a storm is coming, having an emergency plan in place can make all the difference. You’ll want your elderly loved one to have phone numbers of neighbors and family members who live close by. Discuss with your elderly loved one who they should call first and who they should contact should they need immediate assistance. 

Stock an Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit within reach is essential to senior safety. Make sure you have the following set up for your elderly loved one:

• Medications
• Necessary medical equipment and supplies (should they have a specific medical condition)
• Blankets
• Garbage bags
• Stock of easy to open canned goods
• Manual can opener
• Cell phone chargers and backup batteries
• Water (at least a three day supply)
• Moist towelettes
• Hand sanitizers
• Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio

Have Your Loved One Stay With You

If possible, having your elderly loved one stay with you until it’s safe for them to return home may be the best option. Should the weather not be conducive to traveling, if they need assistance, you may have a hard time getting to them. Keeping them in your home during a major storm can give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll be able to keep them safe. 

The Arbors Assisted Living is a community that encourages family members and other caretakers to be involved in their senior loved one’s care. Our goal is to help enhance the quality of life for our residents. Contact us for more information on how we can help assist you with the care of your elderly loved one.