Texans know what June 1 signifies… It is hurricane season! Once a hurricane watch is issued, it is imperative to take immediate action to protect people, property, and pets. Caregivers of elderly loved ones must plan early, especially if their loved ones have special needs. The season can create a host of problems and challenges. Power outages are a major concern. Failing to plan or planning at the last minute can be costly. Caregivers, let us prepare now. While you prepare for your loved ones, you are part of the plan. I would like to share some planning recommendations to help prepare for hurricane season. Let us focus on the evacuation plan (including vehicle care), communications, flashlights, batteries (various sizes), mobility needs, adaptive aids (walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen), medication, medical documents, dry goods, water, and extra diapers and pads. The list is not exhaustive, but it highlights some important points.
Evacuation Plan
The evacuation begins with prompt attention to the news and weather reports. The information is essential in the event of a local evacuation (due to flooding), and it reveals available transportation and shelter locations. For your personal vehicles, make sure the gas tanks are full and the tires are properly inflated.
Communication Plan
We are tied to technology, so ensure your cell phones are fully charged. It is also a good idea to have portable chargers and power banks. For family members who are out of town and worried about loved ones, caregivers should take time to share regular updates to ease their worries.
Mobility Needs and Adaptive Aid
I cannot overstate the importance of ensuring that medical equipment (walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen) is working properly. Maintenance is important and should be done every 6 months or so, but during inclement weather, you may not be able to get the care required because those companies and homes with their families will not be able to assist. If your loved one requires more than one person to lift, pull, push, or care for, put someone strong on notice to help. Be proactive!
Medication & Medical Documents
Make sure you have enough to last at least 2 weeks. Keep all medications in their original containers. For medications that require refrigeration (insulin, eye drops, and antibiotics), a cooler is recommended. Pharmacies will refill medications in advance if weather alerts are issued. For medical documents, place them in a waterproof container. It does not hurt to have a physical list as well. Keep government identification on your person in case of an emergency, so you can be identified if you are unable to respond.
Dry Goods & Water
Make sure to store at least a three- to five-day supply of non-perishable foods and water. Include canned meat packed in water, unsalted nuts and seeds, canned beans, dried fruits, crackers, and your favorite snacks. You should have enough water to last three to five days. Hand sanitizer and wipes are also necessary. Do not forget the manual can opener.
Personal Hygiene Items
Stocking up on eldercare hygiene items should be well planned. Some items are pricy, so being proactive here. Necessary items include, but are not limited to, incontinence items (adult briefs, pull-ups, pads). It is helpful to have wet wipes, water-no-rinse body washes, body creams, and lotions. Do not forget denture care, toothbrushes, and mouthwash.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, hurricane season is the time to be proactive. Waiting until the last minute to prepare can be dangerous and costly. Caring for an elderly loved one is already challenging, trust me, I know, but during this time of year, it is not the time to be relaxed. Start your plan. Stock your items. Be prepared so you do not have to get prepared. Be Proactive! Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She is excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous work, From the Lens of a Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflects her experiences and insights from her heartfelt caregiving journey.