A great resource for Older Adults to reference is included in the the link below:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/disaster-preparedness-and-recovery-older-adults

Be prepared:

Pay attention to potential weather alerts where you live. “Thinking about what your community is most likely to encounter will help you understand what you might need to include in your plan. For more information on preparing for various disasters and emergency situations, visit www.ready.gov/be-informed.”

1. Have an Emergence kit stocked and ready to go for essentials for at least 3-7 days which may contain.
   • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for both drinking and sanitation)
   • Food (at least a several-day supply of nonperishable food) and a manual can opener
   • Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio for weather and evacuation information
   • Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
   • First-aid kit
   • Dust masks, plastic sheeting, and duct tape to help filter contaminated air
   • Soap, hand sanitizer, personal hygiene, and sanitation supplies
   • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) and multitool for general use
   • Sleeping bags or warm blankets
   • Whistle (to signal for help)
   • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
   • Local maps
   • Change of clothing and sturdy shoes
   • Eyeglasses, hearing aids, and backup hearing aid batteries
   • Over-the-counter and prescription medications
   • Essential health information/important family documents
2. Ensure important documents are safe:
   • Store important documents in a fireproof and waterproof container and save a digital copy. Also consider reviewing and updating your home insurance policy, if needed. For example, many insurance policies do not include flood coverage.
   • For a full list of documents to consider, visit Safeguard Critical Documents and Valuables from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
3. Research ahead of time any shelters available in case: Search for open shelters in your area by texting SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362 or by visiting www.ready.gov/shelter or www.disasterassistance.gov.
4. Have a communication plan that you share with your family and friends who have agreed to be available if you need help. Fill out an emergency communications plan. 
5. Consider your medical needs and any medical equipment you are using
   • Are you receiving dialysis
   • Do you need a walker, wheelchair or medical bed
   • Are you receiving oxygen
   • Do you or your loved one who you live with have Dementia or Alzheimers and needs extra support
   • Ensure you have a backup plan for supplies needed.
6. Know your evacuation route:
   • Pay attention to what you may need to do. Can you shelter in place or do you need to evacuate.
   • Don’t wait to the last minute to decide. Take all your needs into account. It may be safer or more comfortable for you to leave than stay. You may need the help of family or friends if you are unable to drive or have limited mobility.
7. Above All Stay safe. Remember to offer a helping need to those around you that are less able to care for themselves.

The information presented is informative and does not constitute direct legal or regulatory advice

September 2024\Skilled Nursing Support\maria.messina@skillednursingsupport.com

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