Thrive While Aging with a Senior Emergency Preparedness Plan

Author

Amada Senior Care

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Amada Senior Care

Posted on

Nov 19, 2024

Book/Edition

Colorado - Colorado Springs

share-this
Share This

Aging is a journey that brings wisdom, grace, and the opportunity to thrive in new ways. While aging brings new joys, it also brings certain vulnerabilities—especially when it comes to emergencies. Whether facing a natural disaster, medical emergency, or sudden need for evacuation, preparedness is key to ensuring seniors stay safe, confident, and empowered.

A solid emergency preparedness plan is essential to thriving during this stage of life. FEMA’s Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults provides a practical checklist for assessing your unique needs as a senior and creating an actionable plan.

Keep reading for a short list of ideas on how you can help yourself or your senior loved one build a plan that brings peace of mind and a sense of security.

Start with the Essentials: Your Senior Health Information

Emergencies don’t wait for anyone, so having easy access to vital health information is crucial. Create a comprehensive list of:

– Medications (including dosages)

– Allergies

– Medical conditions

– Primary care physician contact details

– Insurance information

– Emergency contacts

Place these documents in a waterproof, portable folder that can be easily accessed in the event of an emergency. Ensure that caregivers and family members also have copies.

Emergency Kit Essentials for Senior Needs

Build an emergency kit tailored to the senior’s specific needs. This kit should include:

– Extra prescription medications (at least a week’s worth)

– Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antacids, etc.)

– First aid supplies

– Flashlights, batteries, and phone chargers

– Non-perishable food items and bottled water (enough for 72 hours)

– Personal hygiene products

– Copies of important documents and identification

For those with mobility challenges, consider adding additional supplies, such as assistive devices, extra hearing aid batteries, or any special dietary items.

Plan for Senior Mobility and Transportation Needs

In an emergency, getting out of the home or to a safe location can be difficult for seniors with mobility challenges. Have a transportation plan in place:

– Identify neighbors or caregivers who can assist with transportation.

– Explore local emergency transportation services or dial-a-ride programs.

– Arrange for backup power if mobility aids, such as electric wheelchairs, are used.

Caregivers and family members should familiarize themselves with how to operate any mobility devices in case assistance is needed during an evacuation.

Stay Informed and Connected

Staying connected is vital during an emergency, and it’s especially important for seniors. Create a communication plan that ensures your loved ones know how to reach you, and vice versa.

– Set up regular check-ins with family, caregivers, or neighbors.

– Ensure the senior’s phone or alert system is always charged and within reach.

– Sign up for local emergency alerts and weather notifications, which can often be sent via text or email.

– Consider using an in-home personal emergency response system like Amada Connect that alerts a designated responder to reach you within minutes.

Many cities and towns offer specific resources or registries for seniors who may need extra help during an emergency. Registering in advance can make a significant difference.

Tailor the Emergency Plan to the Senior’s Environment

Whether living independently, with family, or in a senior living community, the emergency preparedness plan should reflect the senior’s specific living situation. In independent living situations, ensure that the home is equipped with:

– Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers

– Ramps, grab bars, and accessible exits

– Clear communication with local emergency services about any special medical or mobility needs

For seniors in assisted living or other care facilities, ensure the facility has a clear emergency plan, and that the senior and family are familiar with it.

Involve the Whole Senior Support Network

Caring for seniors is a community effort. Make sure that the senior’s caregivers, family members, and friends are part of the emergency preparedness plan. Discuss each person’s role in the event of an emergency, from helping with evacuation to ensuring medical supplies are in order.

A well-rounded plan not only provides safety but also reinforces the senior’s support system—leading to greater peace of mind.

Practice the Emergency Plan with Caregivers and Family

Just like any other emergency drill, it’s essential to practice the plan. Schedule regular check-ins with caregivers and family to review the emergency plan and make sure all necessary supplies are up to date.

Run through the steps of the plan with the senior to ensure they feel comfortable and confident. This practice can ease anxiety and ensure that in a real emergency, everyone knows their role.

Seek Professional Senior Care Support if Needed

At Amada Senior Care, we understand that emergencies can be overwhelming, and we’re here to help. Our non-medical senior care team can assist with developing, organizing, and implementing emergency preparedness plans specific to your needs.

In-home care services can also provide regular wellness checks, assistance with mobility, and help maintaining your emergency kit—ensuring that you or your loved one can focus on thriving, not just surviving, as you age.

Having a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan isn’t just about being ready for the worst—it’s about thriving while aging. When seniors feel confident in their preparedness, they can continue living their lives with dignity, independence, and peace of mind.

At Amada, we’re here to help in every step of the way, ensuring that senior clients are safe, cared for, and empowered to thrive in every stage of life. Let’s work together to create a plan that supports their well-being today and for the years to come. CLICK HERE to find an Amada office near you.

Other Articles You May Like

Heart-Healthy Eating for Seniors

Maintaining heart health becomes increasingly necessary as we get older. Throughout our lives, our hearts work tirelessly to support our bodies. In our senior years, it becomes dire that we provide them with the best care possible. A well-balanced diet keeps our hearts healthy. Learn to choose the right foods that can help manage weight, improve cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure.The Need for Heart-Healthy NutritionTo maintain heart health, certain nutrients are particularly beneficial. Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fatty fish, are great for reducing inflammation and lowering heart disease risk. Fiber, abundant in whole grains and fruits, helps regulate cholesterol levels. Antioxidants, present in various fruits and vegetables, combat damage in the body caused by free radicals. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients can significantly benefit seniors, helping to maintain both heart health and overall well-being. However, seniors often face dietary challenges, such as decreased appetite, culinary limitations, or restricted access to fresh groceries, making it necessary to find helpful ways to incorporate them into the diet.Specific Heart-Healthy Foods to EatIncorporating foods rich in essential nutrients can strengthen heart health. Fatty fishlike salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart function. Whole grains, such as oats and brown rice, are packed with fiber, aiding in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them indispensable to a heart-healthy diet. When shopping, choose fresh, vibrant produce and whole foods. Farmers' markets or grocery stores in the Fort Collins area often have seasonal fruits and vegetables that are both fresh and affordable.Easy Heart-Healthy RecipesAdding heart-healthy foods to your diet doesn't have to be complicated. Below are some simple and nutritious recipes to get started:Salmon Salad: Mix canned salmon with a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Add diced cucumber, tomatoes, and a handful of spinach. Serve on whole-grain bread for a quick, nutrient-rich meal.Oatmeal With Berries: Cook oats in water or milk. Top with fresh or frozen berries and a sprinkle of nuts for a fiber-packed breakfast.Vegetable Stir-Fry: Saut your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots in a bit of olive oil. Add tofu or chicken for protein and serve over brown rice.These recipes are designed to be straightforward, requiring minimal preparation and cooking skills. Planning meals in advance can also help seniors or their caregivers prepare heart-healthy dishes throughout the week.Tips for Incorporating Heart-Healthy FoodsGradually introducing heart-healthy foods is a manageable way to transform your diet. Swap processed snacks for fresh fruits or nuts, and focus on balanced, smaller portions. Practice mindful eatingtake your time while eating to aid digestion and increase satisfaction. When dining out, opt for grilled, baked, or steamed options, and ask for dressings and sauces on the side to manage portion sizes and sodium intake.Building Heart-Healthy Habits for the FutureAdopting heart-healthy eating habits doesnt have to be overwhelming. With simple changes, seniors can significantly improve their heart health and overall vitality. Choosing nutrient-rich foods and sticking to manageable meal plans can make a lasting difference in well-being.At Senior Helpers Greeley, we are committed to assisting seniors and their families in adopting heart-healthy habits. If you reside near Loveland, Fort Collins, Estes Park, Wellington, or Windsor, contact us for personalized advice and support on maintaining a heart-friendly diet. Let's work together for a healthier heart and a healthier life! For more information, please call 970-344-9486.

Do Older Adults Really Smell Different?

Odor its a touchy subject, especially when it comes to the scents that may be associated with humans and the aging process. Some have asked the question: Do older people really smell different?As it turns out, a significant amount of research has been done on the subject with mixed conclusions.What You Need to Know About NonenalSometimes when visiting senior care facility or an older adults home, you may notice a musty, grassy, or greasy odor. While some have inaccurately linked this scent with poor hygiene, scientists have another name for it: nonenal. It is a researched condition that could be connected to the aging process.According to a study published by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, nonenal is a chemical compound that is produced when omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids on the skin are degraded through oxidation. Around age 40 in both men and women, as the skin begins producing more fatty acids, its natural antioxidant defenses begin to deteriorate. Hormonal changes like menopause in women can contribute to this chemical process as well.Not Everyone AgreesIn a New York Times column, essayist Ann Bauer discovered disagreement among researchers about this issue. Bauer noted that in 2001, Japanese researchers first discovered this unsaturated aldehyde called 2-nonenal that is more concentrated on the skin of older people.The Japanese study was confirmed by Johan Lundstrom, who used study samples from the underarms of people from the ages of 20 to 95 and presented them to 41 participants who ranked them on intensity and unpleasantness. Dr. Lundstrom and his co-authors found that participants were able to correctly assign age labels to body odors originating from old-age donors, but not to body odors originating from other age groups.But George Preti, a 74-year-old analytical organic chemist, says his studies did not match the results found by either the Japanese group or Dr. Lundstroms team. Dr. Pretis team used upper back and forearm samples and submitted them to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, concluding that no method of analysis revealed the presence of 2-nonenal in older subjects.Old people actually smell less than younger ones, Dr. Preti said. Unless you go to a nursing home, where there are hygiene issues in the mix, youre not going to find this musty, unpleasant odor everyone is talking about.The scientists do agree that people with chronic diseases are more likely to give off odor no matter what their age, according to Bauer. Dr. Preti attributed this more to diet, metabolism, and self-care. Dr. Lundstrom credited the possibility which he is in the process of investigating that ongoing inflammation leads to odorous cell decay.Tips to Keep Things FreshRegardless of what causes scents around older adults and their homes, experts do agree that there are ways to keep aging adults and their houses smelling fresh.Keep fresh air flowing through the house.Open windows periodically to let clean air in. Good ventilation can help prevent stale air from hanging around a house.Clean the House.Check the home for spoiled or expired food and ensure bedding is regularly washed. Wash clothing after each wearing and air out shoes. Use these tips to keep a senior's house clean and address hoarding if that's an issue. Practice good bodily and dental hygiene.Floss and brush teeth, gums, and tongue daily, and follow guidelines for proper denture care. Make sure that bathing is happening several times a week. Encourage sponge baths on those days when a full shower isn't scheduled. Hydrate.Drinking plenty of water can help cleanse the body of odor. Refresh and repack old items.Old clothing and paper can carry a musty smell. Wash clothing, then store between dryer sheets. Put dried lavender in breathable cotton or linen bags and add them to storage containers. Set an open box of baking soda on closet floors or hang a bag of cedar chops in closets. It may be difficult for some older adults to follow the healthy routines mentioned above if they are dealing with illness or other issues. Know the signs that an aging adult may need more help around the house.

Honoring ALS Awareness Month: Walking Alongside Families Facing ALS

May is ALS Awareness Montha time to reflect, educate, and come together in support of individuals and families facing this devastating diagnosis. ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily attacks motor neurons, eventually affecting a persons ability to move, speak, eat, and breathe. While many with ALS retain their cognitive abilities, nearly half experience some cognitive or behavioral changes, and about 15% go on to develop frontotemporal dementia.An ALS diagnosis doesnt just affect the person receiving itit impacts every aspect of life for the entire family. It can feel as if the ground has shifted beneath your feet. Suddenly, there are medical terms to understand, specialists to visit, equipment to secure, and difficult decisions to make. Its a journey no one should have to walk alone. Thats where Premier Care Management of Florida comes in.As Care Managers, we become guides, advocates, and constant sources of support. Our role is to help families make sense of the chaos, to bring calm and clarity to the overwhelming. We coordinate care across providers, connect families with trusted resources, and gently walk them through the stages ahead. We help put plans in placewhether its advance care planning or finding the right adaptive equipmentso that clients and their loved ones can focus on what matters most: spending meaningful time together.Weve sat with families as they heard the diagnosis for the first time. Weve helped spouses navigate the growing weight of caregiving. Weve advocated for treatments, scheduled in-home care, and been a steady presence during hospital stays. And most importantly, weve witnessed the strength, love, and resilience that define the ALS community.At Premier Care Management of Florida, we understand that every ALS journey is unique, and every person deserves care that honors their dignity, their wishes, and their humanity. This month, and every month, we remain committed to walking alongside those affected by ALSwith knowledge, experience, and above all, compassion.If your family is navigating an ALS diagnosis and needs guidance, please know that you dont have to do it alone. Were here, ready to help. Contact Premier Care Management of Florida:Visit our website: www.PremierCMFL.com OR Call us for a FREE consultation: 941-400-2387

Local Services By This Author

Amada Senior Care

Home Maintenance & Handyman Services 755 Colorado Hwy 105, Palmer Lake, Colorado, 80133

ASAP Medical Staffing - Amada Senior Care

Staffing-Medical Services 755 Colorado Hwy 105, Palmer Lake, Colorado, 80133

Amada Senior Care

Non-Medical 755 Colorado Hwy 105, Palmer Lake, Colorado, 80133

Amada Senior Care is a preferred provider of non-medical senior care services. We specialize in helping folks with Long-Term Care Insurance. We can work miracles with LTC policies. We focus on serving aging and disabled adults who elect to remain in their own homes with a caregiver, or who need assistance finding an alternative care environment.Here at Amada Colorado Springs, it is our goal to meet all of a familys senior care needs and to exceed their expectations of what care can be. If we have been brought in to provide in-home care for a senior, we go beyond assisting them with activities of daily living like cooking and housekeeping to enrich our clients life in the most meaningful ways we can.  By adding personal touches to the care we provide, we are able to show our senior clients that they are truly valued as we vastly improve the quality of their lives.When home is no longer the ideal environment for a senior, we will guide that senior and his or her family to the assisted living environment that ideally suits their unique needs and preferences. We will even continue to check in on clients who have moved to senior housing communities, just to make sure we havent missed an opportunity to be of service to them.At Amada Colorado Springs, we have learned through personal and professional experiences that the loved ones of senior care clients are often overlooked. We know how stressful and overwhelming it can feel to try to ensure the best care for a loved one who struggles due to his or her age. We believe that if we are to properly honor our calling to provide the best senior care possible, we must make sure that a senior clients loved ones feel encouraged and supported throughout their senior care journey.Nothing compares to the warmth and security of familiar surroundings. At Amada, we strive to enhance the home care experience with our committed staff, cutting edge communication tools, and unmatched customer service.We invite you to contact us at Amada Senior Care Colorado Springs to learn more about how we can help a senior in your life age with dignity and give your family the peace of mind they deserve. Let our family take care of yours, because, as we say, Someone you love needs us.