Caregiving & Support
Aging & Community
Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults in a Changing Climate
This article was written by a guest contributor to the Center for Aging & Community.
It seems like only yesterday that there was 3 feet of snow on the ground and below freezing temperatures. Looking ahead to next week, I see several days of 90 degree weather in the forecast. Whether you believe climate change is human-driven, or just a naturally occurring fluke, extreme weather (droughts, floods, intense heat waves) is becoming more commonplace. As older adults are more susceptible to these extremes, we do not want to be unprepared.
In this month’s Georgene’s Corner, I would like to discuss emergency preparedness for older adults, especially our solo-agers. Building an emergency preparedness kit may take a bit of work, but in this era of unpredictable weather, it could save your life.
Essential Supplies for Your Emergency Kit
Utilizing professional guidelines from Ready.gov and the Health in Aging Foundation, the following are suggested kit essentials:
- Medications & Medical Needs: A 2-week supply of all prescriptions, a list of dosages/allergies, eyeglasses, hearing aid batteries, extra walking aids, and medical devices (oxygen, insulin pump)
- Water & Food: At least 1 gallon of water per person per day (3–7 day supply) and non-perishable food with a manual can opener
- Important Documents: A waterproof container containing copies of insurance (Medicare/Medicaid), IDs, medical records, legal papers (health care proxy/will), and a list of doctors and emergency contacts
- Power & Safety: Flashlights (not candles), battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, emergency whistle, and a power bank for cell phones
- Personal Hygiene: Incontinence supplies, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and garbage bags
- Cash: Small denominations of cash, as card systems may be down
I would add a battery operated fan (or two) and a solar powered charger as well. If you lose power during a heat wave they will come in handy. You will need an ice chest for perishable food and water. Also close all windows and blinds, move to the lowest level of your home, wear light colored clothing, use a misting bottle filled with cold water, take cool showers and avoid using the stove. If the heat becomes too oppressive, call 2-1-1 for a list of public cooling centers in your area.
Proactive Planning for Solo Agers
For us solo agers, there are other important steps that need to be taken. Following recommendations from the California Department of Aging, Ready.gov and Spa Industry Association:
- Establish a Buddy System: Identify at least two people who can check on you, know how to use your equipment, and know where you keep your emergency supplies.
- Transportation Plan: Identify who will help you evacuate if you do not drive or need assistance.
- Medical Alert System: Ensure your wearable device (pendant, wristband) is fully charged and that you have a plan to contact help directly.
- Emergency Contact List: Keep a printed list of emergency contacts, friends, and family by your phone and in your kit.
Recognizing Heat Stroke
Be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke as recognized by the Mayo Clinic. Call 911 immediately if you experience:
- Temperature over 104 degrees.
- Altered mental states - confusion, slurred speech.
- Loss of consciousness, seizures.
- Hot, dry, or flushed skin.
Protecting Pets
Finally, let us not forget our furry family members (not that any of us would). Older cats and dogs are particularly susceptible to the heat. As recommended by the American Red Cross, make sure they have a continuous supply of fresh water (you can add ice cubes to your dog’s water). Provide a cooling mat or wet towels for them to lie on. Fans are an ineffective way to cool your pet down (I did not know this). If your pet is outside, make sure they have access to a shaded area and plenty of water. If you have a dog, you can freeze chicken broth or peanut butter in ice cube trays and make “pupsicles.” Cooling centers often accept pets, so be sure to specify that you have a pet if you need to leave your home.
Let’s hope that each day this summer will be a breezy 75 degrees with sunshine and low humidity; however being that we have already seen 90 degree days in May, it is best we be prepared. How do you rate?
What I have compiled here are the basics, but please check the links below for more detailed information.
Additional Resources:
