Seniors

Seniors may have special needs that must be considered when you create a Household Plan and Emergency Kit.

Mobility

• If you or a family member has difficulty moving quickly and easily, make sure your neighbors are aware and you have someone who can check in during an emergency.
• Develop a support network with several people who will follow up with you after an emergency.

Medication and Medical Supplies

• Keep a separate supply of at least seven days’ worth of any medication or critical medical supplies, such as oxygen.
• If you rely on electric medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, insulin pumps, ventilators, and oxygen compressors, talk to your medical supply company about getting extra batteries or a generator as a back-up power source.

Additions to the Emergency Kit and Go Bag

• A whistle to signal for help.
• Necessary medications and supplies.
• Special sanitary needs.
• Important medical phone numbers.
• Food that meets specialized dietary needs.
• List of medications, medical conditions, insurance information, allergies, and a copy of your insurance cards. Keep one copy with you at all times, and give the other copy to someone else for safekeeping.

Care

• During an emergency, personal care attendants may not be able to make it to their patients. Make arrangements with caregivers who are familiar with your personal care agency’s emergency policy.
• If you have a service animal, make sure it has a registered tag.