Being prepared for an emergency makes it less stressful. This is especially helpful when caring for an elderly loved one. Follow these steps to create a plan that will help you know that you are ready.
1. Create an Emergency Plan
An emergency plan includes essential contacts, naming one person as the point of contact who would then begin making calls. Relative or friends who need updates are included on this group text or phone chain. The list needs to be kept up to date. Keep a shared document with information to be updated easily but also include a physical copy in emergency supplies.
In Florida, sometimes evacuations are required. Know the plan for where your loved one resides so it is clear where you would meet. Will they need to be picked up from their residence or be in an alternate meeting place? Have a backup plan. Two meeting places allows for flexibility if something shifts. Have addresses and phone numbers for pickup locations. Have disaster/ emergency plans and maps of the area that clearly show where evacuation routes are. Meeting places along these routes are helpful.
Review the plan and practice it.
Personalize and Emergency Medical Kit
Emergency medical kits contain general and personalized supplies. A medical ID bracelet may be helpful for individuals with specific conditions. Be sure to include:
- General first aid kit, such as one from Red Cross.
- Medication for 3-6 days with an updated list of medication names/ brands and dosages. Refrigerated medication needs to have some freezer packs and an insulated bag ready.
- Medical equipment dentures, hearing aids and batteries, blood pressure cuff and blood sugar monitoring equipment.
- Medical Records and any ongoing treatment plans printed out. Also include copies of insurance, Medicaid and/ or Medicare cards.
Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit
Remember your emergency medical supply kit. If an emergency, such as a natural disaster, leaves you without electricity or water for days, you will need additional supplies. Be sure to include the following:
- Water: 1 gallon per person per day with a 3-day supply
- Food: canned or dry food consider juice, soup, and high protein shakes or bars. Also remember a manual can opener if canned food is included.
- Basic Supplies: Flashlight, hand radio, batteries, waterproof matches, cell phone chargers, solar charger, plates and utensils, plastic bags, garbage bags
- Local Maps
- Clothes and blankets: one change of clothes per day and one blanket per person
- Basic hygiene: toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, wet wipes
- First aid kit (as mentioned above)
- Cash: Having $50 cash may prove helpful in certain situations.
BrightStar Care
Having an emergency plan will help both you and your loved one feel more prepared. While these situations can be challenging for us all, BrightStar Care strives to provide individualized comfort and care for you and your loved one as we partner with you. Contact us or call 561-741-1200 to learn more about our services and what we can do for you.