Despite the fact that aging adults suffer disproportionately more than other demographics in natural catastrophe occurrences, they are frequently ignored in widespread coverage of these disasters. Age alone does not increase one’s susceptibility to natural disasters; rather, aging’s consequences, such as frailty, memory loss, and mobility issues, render aging adults more vulnerable during these emergencies. If they are isolated from their customary support networks, even elderly people who are completely competent at taking care of themselves are more in danger.
The Hurricane Florence that happened years back came with the evacuation of aging adults to Asheboro, NC. Many aging adults had to leave their residences to be with nearby family members because of the disaster happening at the time.
Even though it provides you and your family peace of mind and the certainty that you will not be alone in the event of an emergency, it is best to sit down with your loved one and work out a strategy for how you would collectively face a natural disaster. Below are ways to prepare for hurricane evacuation in Asheboro, NC:
Preparation for Hurricanes for Aging Adults
You can do several things right away to be ready for a potential storm, like stocking up on water, learning the best way to evacuate your area, and shielding your house from potential harm. There are some preparations, nevertheless, that are unique to aging adults. Here are some tips for storm preparation and keeping vulnerable elders safe and healthy:
- Prepare Two Weeks’ Worth of Prescription Drugs and Medical Supplies
As part of your storm preparation strategy, find out how to get access to and store the additional medicine from your loved one’s pharmacy, doctor’s office, or insurance provider. Include additional necessary over-the-counter medications, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer in the location where you keep the extra medications.
- Prepare Ahead for Evacuation
Make a plan for where your loved one will go if he or she is unable to manage during an evacuation due to a hurricane. Due to potential outages with phones and electricity, this is crucial. Have a plan in place for who will assist your loved one to leave the house safely and what mobility aids might be required.
- Consider the Pets
Your homes and hearts are becoming more and more populated by our four-legged pals. Have a plan in place for the event of a hurricane if your elderly loved one has pets. Make sure your elderly loved one has extra pet food and supplies on hand, for instance, if a severe storm is headed their way but they are not required to evacuate. Identify pet-friendly shelters, motels, etc. if an evacuation is necessary.
- Prepare Your Hurricane Emergency Pack
This is a fundamental tip that is relevant to everybody who could be impacted by hurricanes. You can check out a sample list from the Ready.gov website as well as one that is tailored specifically for elders. Additionally, the Red Cross provides a 32-page storm preparation manual that was created for and by aging adults.
Hurricane Preparedness in a Retirement Community
Does the retirement community where your loved one resides have a strategy and amenities in place for dealing with a natural disaster? Here at TerraBella Asheboro, our first goal is to ensure the safety and security of our team members and residents. We take all required safety measures for our residents, and always watch out for any modifications to the storms’ course that may have an impact on our neighborhoods.
Below are ways our team take additional measures in anticipation of the storm to guarantee the safety of our communities:
- To supply electricity in the case of a utility breakdown, generators have been maintained and refueled, or delivery services have been engaged.
- Our senior leaders are in possession of satellite phones.
- Food, water, batteries, and illumination are available as emergency supplies.
- The maintenance team is ready to help with any problems that may come up.
- To guarantee that all demands are satisfied, staffing has been established for all shifts.
- There are carefully planned escape routes.
- Family and team members have been informed.
- In the event of an evacuation, our hired suppliers are available to transport team members and residents in buses.
- As necessary, we provide support for connection, security, and extra generators.
