setting up an emergency preparedness plan for seniors
March 30, 2021
Preparing for the unexpected can provide you with peace of mind. It can also improve your safety and decrease the likelihood of medical or health complications during an emergency.
Importance of Emergency Preparedness
Being prepared will help you manage unexpected situations, especially if you live alone. Taking precautions for inclement weather, natural disasters, power outages and medical emergencies will lower your risk for life-threatening complications. Creating an emergency plan is the first step. Talk to your loved ones about checking in every day to monitor your physical and mental health. It’s also a good idea to create plans for various emergencies with your at-home care providers if you employ them.Emergency Contacts
Building a contact network will help you communicate quickly during an emergency. Whether you store a list in your phone or have it posted around your house, your emergency contacts should be readily accessible to yourself and others. Your contact list may include:- Family
- Friends
- Neighbors
- Coworkers
- Primary physicians and specialists
- At-home care agencies
- Local fire and police departments
- Local hospitals
Supply of Medication and Groceries
It’s vital to regularly restock your groceries and have any medication readily available, especially if you have chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease or lung disease. Talk to loved ones about helping you run errands or utilize online services to order groceries and have them delivered to your home. You can also have your medication mailed to your home. Keeping a three-day supply of food and fresh water will provide you with enough supplies to get through the initial stages of an emergency.Safe Practices During COVID-19
Our immune systems weaken with age, which puts seniors at greater risk for developing complications associated with COVID-19. Here are some best practices that will help you stay safe during the pandemic:- Limit your exposure to large crowds.
- Practice social distancing and wear a mask if you go out in public.
- Limit the number of visitors to your home.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Disinfect high traffic areas like remote controls, phones, doorknobs, countertops and cabinets.
