Although seniors made up only 15% of the population of New Orleans before Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, according to Knight Ridder, 74% of the hurricane victims were older adults. These events served as a grim reminder that older adults are disproportionately at risk in disaster situations, and emergency preparation is an even greater concern for this population.
The U.S. Administration on Aging’s National Family Caregiver Support Program and Illuminage Communication Partners are pleased to announce the consumer guide Just in Case: Emergency Readiness for Older Adults and Caregivers.
This free consumer resource includes a 12-page fact sheet and checklist that will help older adults and caregivers prepare for emergencies. Special emphasis is placed on issues that affect older adults, disabled persons, and their caregivers due to medical conditions, physical challenges, assistive devices, and mobility issues.
Just in Case presents an easy-to-do three step approach to emergency preparedness:
Step 1 focuses on a handful of essential things a person should know.
Step 2 covers emergency supplies, both for surviving at home and for evacuation if necessary.
Step 3 is creating a personal plan that takes into account a person’s own unique medical and physical needs.
“Just in Case is a valuable and timely resource for older adults and their caregivers. It both encourages personal responsibility and also provides direction to additional assistance in the community, empowering those who go through the steps to prepare themselves and their loved ones in case of an emergency. I think every care professional, senior, and caregiver should read it and share it with clients, families, friends, and anyone else they care about.”
Advocare Care Management is the preeminent place for care planning in Aventura. We are senior care advocates and give you the resources, support, and tools you need to care for an aging loved one. Our team is available 24 hours and makes things easier on everyone. We serve all of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties. Contact Advocare Care Management today and learn how we can help you to give effective support and care to your loved one.
Reprinted with permission from Aginglife.org. Contact Advocare Care Management and put our knowledge and resources to work for you.