For seniors living on their own, the sense of independence is a cherished part of their everyday life. However, another part of everyday life in Venice (for all ages) is the need for emergency preparedness. From major storms and power outages, to heat related illness – it is important that all residents understand emergency preparedness. But this is perhaps more important for seniors who may be physically hindered, may not drive, or could have other obstacles to reacting safely to a disaster situation.
If your loved one is living at an assisted living or memory care facility, be sure to speak to the administration to understand their emergency preparedness plans – and if you play a role in them. However, if your loved one lives alone, or lives with you but is alone much of the day, it is important to have an emergency plan in place for them.
Emergency Preparedness is all About Planning
Many situations which turn tragic could have been avoided with advance planning. In addition to putting a plan in place, be sure to practice it with your senior family member. Rehearsing the details frequently will help to ensure that they know what to do should an emergency arise.
Have an Appropriate Means of Contact: Smartphones have made contact easier than ever, so if your senior is comfortable with the technology, teach them how to simply speak “Call Daughter” into the phone. However, because many seniors are not as tied to their devices as those in younger generations, this still puts them at risk of not being near the phone, or knowing where it is, in an emergency. Medical alert type devices which can be worn around the neck are useful even if your senior doesn’t have imminent medical issues, putting out the call to you and to rescue services with the touch of a button.
Have a Family On-Call Schedule: Understanding that it is nearly impossible for one family member to be on point at all times, set up a schedule which delegates the responsibility. This member commits to going to their home to check on them or picking them up and evacuating to a certain meeting point. For hurricane planning, be sure that a family member is appointed to pick up your loved one and bring them to safety days before a scheduled storm. Not only will this avoid last minute emergencies, but will give the senior comfort that they are not alone and anxiously wondering what will happen.
Be Sure They Are Stocked: Several times per month, check to make sure your senior has all needed medications up to date, as well as a pantry of non-perishable food and water. Make sure prescriptions are up to date. Involve them in this process so they maintain their independence and responsibility for their well-being – while still having your set of eyes to make sure. Have a flashlight with full batteries in full view, in each room of the house.
Understand Medical Procedures: As a responsible family member, be sure that you understand what medications and devices are needed, and how to use them. Have all doctor contact information on hand (saved in your smartphone) to call if necessary. Understand the signs that your loved one may be in distress as it pertains to their specific health concerns.
Know What is Important: If you are quickly moving a loved one out of an unsafe area, you may not have time to pack thoroughly. Therefore it is important to understand what is important and sentimental to your loved one. Perhaps you can make a photo album with them of their most important and cherished photos (easy to grab if necessary). There may be a special momento, blanket, or piece of jewelry. Make sure you have plans for any pets on premises as well.
Finally, you may wish to make sure that any federal benefits or checks are switched to electronic payments. When it comes to emergency preparedness, the financial aspect is important to continuing on after a disaster.
If you have determined that the best and safest curse of action for your loved one is to put them in a senior living environment, the caring professionals at A Banyan Residence would welcome the opportunity to show your our Venice facility. We are committed to the very best care – and to the ongoing safety and comfort – of every resident.
