A significant hurricane formed at Suwanee, Georgia, and was headed toward Florida, where it was expected to send a life-threatening storm surge to the coast and torrential rainfall to wide portions of the state. The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season got off to a delayed start, but once Ian formed, it did so under perfect conditions: low levels of vertical wind shear (which can dissipate a storm) and plenty of warm ocean surface waters. There were several areas that needed to be evacuated. Some senior residents of Suwanee, Georgia, however, refused to leave their homes during the evacuation. Below, we explain why it is hopeless to evacuate seniors in Suwanee, GA.
4 Reasons Why Some Seniors In Suwanee, GA Do Not Evacuate During Natural Disasters
It Might Be Quite Pricey to Evacuate
When on a fixed income, evacuating may be out of the question for some retirees. There are a number of direct and indirect expenses connected with an evacuation. Expenses like gas, groceries, and rent may add up quickly. There’s a chance that shelters will make you feel unsafe. In a poll, performed in 2020 with 2,256 U.S. seniors, it is discovered that nearly one-quarter (24%) said it would be difficult to pay to stay somewhere for a week if required. Costs associated with repeated evacuations can pile up quickly, especially given the frequency with which storms occur.
Fears About Managing Long-Term Health Problems
Sixty percent or more of U.S. seniors currently deal with more than one chronic illness. Conditions like diabetes, renal illness, and even cancer require constant monitoring and care to maintain good health. A study found that just 25% of the elderly examined who rely on electrically powered medical devices really had a backup power supply for such devices. Additionally, life-saving daily routines can include the use of oxygen tanks, home dialysis devices, chemotherapy, and rigorous nutrition and pharmaceutical regimes. Deficiencies in health can emerge without this gear, which can have long-term consequences. Elderly people may be reluctant to deviate from their usual care routines for fear of losing access to vital but immobile medical equipment.
Limitations in Mobility
Aging often brings about changes that make it harder to move around, lose balance, and become unsteady. Preparing for a storm has a number of challenges, one of which is the increased likelihood of falls and other injuries owing to the increased activity required. Challenges in getting ready to evacuate and then going out of one’s home into a congested and chaotic scenario can be a significant deterrent for seniors with restricted mobility.
Social Isolation
The problem of elderly social isolation is also well-documented. Those over the age of 65 who are vulnerable include those who are isolated, care for others or don’t speak English. It’s possible these people don’t know about the evacuation or don’t have the means to get out. That’s why it’s important to check in with your neighbors and offer assistance if you can, as suggested by evacuation recommendations. Some communities also offer senior citizens evacuation assistance through government or non-profit programs.
