How Can Aging Adults & Caregivers Stay Prepared for Emergencies?

Natural disasters, power outages, and medical emergencies can strike without warning, making preparation crucial for seniors and their caregivers. Older adults face unique challenges during emergencies, including mobility limitations, chronic health conditions, and medication dependencies. Having a comprehensive emergency plan can mean the difference between safety and serious complications when disaster strikes.

Create a Comprehensive Emergency Kit

Building an emergency kit specifically tailored to seniors requires more than basic supplies. Start with the essentials and expand based on individual needs:

Basic emergency supplies:

• Nonperishable food for at least 3 days (including special dietary items)

• One gallon of water per person per day for 3 days

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• First aid kit and basic medical supplies
• Blankets and warm clothing

Senior-specific additions:

• Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses

• Hearing aid batteries

• Medical equipment like oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, or walkers

• Incontinence supplies if needed
• Important documents in waterproof containers

Store supplies in easily accessible locations and check expiration dates regularly. Consider keeping smaller emergency kits in the car and at frequently visited locations.

A professional caregiver can help you put together a complete emergency kit for your loved one. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide at-home care, Senior Stride Home Care has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering hourly and around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years.

Maintain a Current Medication Plan

Medication organization becomes critical during emergencies when pharmacies may be closed or inaccessible. Work with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive medication strategy:

• Keep at least a 7-day supply of all prescription medications.

• Store medications in original containers with clear labels.

• Create a detailed medication list including dosages, prescribing doctors, and pharmacy information.

• Include over-the-counter medications and vitamins in your inventory.

• Rotate medication supplies to prevent expiration.

• Consider asking your loved one’s doctor about emergency prescriptions for extended supplies.

Keep medication lists updated and store copies in multiple locations, including with trusted family members or caregivers. Some medications require refrigeration, so plan for power outages with coolers and ice packs.

Develop a Communication Network

Establishing reliable communication channels ensures help can reach seniors quickly during emergencies. Build a network that includes multiple contact methods and people:

Essential contacts:

• Primary emergency contact (family member or close friend)

• Local emergency services and non-emergency numbers

• Healthcare providers and specialists

• Pharmacy contact information

• Utility companies
• Insurance companies

Program important numbers into cell phones and keep written copies in wallets and emergency kits. Designate an out-of-state contact person who can coordinate information if local phone lines are overwhelmed. Consider investing in a medical alert system that provides 24/7 monitoring and emergency response.

If you have the help of a professional caregiver, make sure he or she has a copy of your emergency plan and contact list. Oshkosh senior care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Plan for Special Health Needs

Seniors with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or cognitive impairments need customized emergency preparations. Address specific health challenges before emergencies occur:

For mobility limitations:

• Identify evacuation routes accessible by wheelchair or walker.

• Arrange transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services.

• Keep mobility aids in good working condition with backup options available.

For chronic conditions:

• Work with doctors to create emergency medical plans.

• Understand how conditions may worsen during stressful situations.
• Prepare additional supplies for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory issues.

For cognitive impairments:

• Create simple visual emergency instruction cards.

• Ensure identification includes emergency contacts and medical information.

• Consider GPS tracking devices for those who may wander.

• Practice emergency procedures regularly to build familiarity.

Know Your Local Resources

Communities offer various emergency services and resources specifically designed to help seniors. Research and register for these services before emergencies occur:

• Contact your local emergency management office about senior emergency programs.

• Register with utility companies for priority restoration if you have medical equipment that requires electricity.

• Learn about local evacuation shelters and their accessibility features.

• Connect with senior centers that may offer emergency assistance.

• Investigate transportation services for seniors during evacuations.

• Find out about emergency food and supply distribution locations.

Many communities maintain registries of residents who may need extra help during emergencies. Registering provides emergency responders with important information about location and special needs.

If you’re concerned about ensuring your loved one’s safety in case of an emergency, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Oshkosh, WI, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated around-the-clock caregiver. Senior Stride Home Care will work with you to tailor a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today to learn more about our customized care plans.