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Advice for older adults
By Times staff
© St. Petersburg Times
published May 26, 2002
In Florida, we are particularly vulnerable to severe weather such as hurricanes, and seniors are especially susceptible to their effects. Those who live alone, or are without the support of family or friends, must take special precautions in the event of an emergency. People who are frail or disabled (either mentally or physically) may need special assistance from family members, friends or social service agencies. Older adults who are also caregivers may require outside assistance.
Excessive stress and anxiety can contribute to increased episodes of illness, particularly for people with heart disease and other illnesses. If an older adult lives in a nursing home, assisted living facility or boarding home, the administrator should be contacted to learn about the disaster plan for that facility.
Home health care and homebound patients
- Notify your health agency where you will be during a hurricane and when care can be re-established.
- If you are homebound and under the care of a physician, but not a home health agency, contact your physician.
- If you require respirators or other electric-dependent medical equipment, you should make prior medical arrangements with your physician. You should also register with your local power company.
- If you require oxygen, check with your supplier about emergency plans.
- If you evacuate, remember to take medications, written instructions regarding your care, special equipment and bedding with you.
- If you will need assistance in an evacuation, please register now with your county emergency management agency.
- If you would require hospitalization, you must make prior arrangements through your physician.
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