Helping Seniors Prepare for an Emergency Situation

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Disaster can strike at any time, and it’s important for people of all ages to have emergency plans. When it comes to the elderly, additional factors should be considered. Many elderly people live alone and face unique challenges, such as mobility limitations or cognitive issues. This guide will help you create an emergency preparedness plan to ensure your aging loved one has the help he or she needs if the time comes.  

Register for Assistance Services

Many areas offer emergency assistance services to seniors and those with special needs who don’t have friends or family nearby who can help. Make sure your loved one is registered with the local emergency management agency so they know to help if a disaster strikes.  

A professional caregiver can be present to assist your loved one in the event of an emergency. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide Home Care, Milwaukee Assisting Hands Home Care has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years.

Gather Important Documents

Prepare for an emergency by keeping important documents and items in a waterproof bag or fireproof safe. An emergency kit should include cash, an extra set of keys, your loved one’s birth certificate, marriage certificate, social security card, and insurance papers, and a list with names and contact information for doctors, pharmacists, and caregivers. 

Homecare 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. 

Prepare Disaster Supplies

Make sure your loved one has a disaster kit prepared with a 3–5 day supply of the following items in case he or she has to survive alone for a few days before help arrives:  

  • One gallon of water per day
  • Food that will keep well (canned foods, dry mixes, and items that don’t require cooking, refrigeration, or special preparation)
  • First aid kit
  • Two-week supply of prescription medications
  • Medical support equipment, such as extra eyeglasses and a hearing aid with extra batteries
  • Hygiene supplies, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer

Create a Support Network

It’s important for the elderly to create a network of several people who can check on them during emergencies. This network may include family members, caregivers, neighbors, and friends. Make sure at least three people are aware of any disaster plans and are willing to provide support if necessary. Exchange important keys with people in the support network and let them know the location of your loved one’s emergency supplies. Agree on how you will contact each other during an emergency without relying on telephones, which may not work.  

If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality senior home care, Milwaukee Assisting Hands Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age. Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and find out how we can assist you and your loved one.