Advice for Older Adults

    Elderly Woman

In Florida, we are particularly vulnerable to severe weather like hurricanes and elders are especially susceptible to their effects. Those who live alone, or are without the support of family or friends, must take special precautions in the event of an emergency situation. People who are frail or disabled (either mentally or physically) may need special assistance from family members, friends or social service agencies. Older adults who are also caregivers may require outside assistance. Excessive stress and anxiety can contribute to increased episodes of illness, particularly for persons with heart disease and other illnesses. If an older adult lives in a nursing home, assisted living facility (ALF) or boarding home, the administrator should be contacted to learn about the disaster plan for that facility.


Home Health Care & Homebound Patients

      Homebound Patient
  • Tell your health agency and oxygen company where you will be during a hurricane. Ask them about their plans to provide care.
  • If you are homebound and under the care of a physician, but not a home health agency, contact your physician.
  • If you require respirators or other electric-dependent medical equipment, you should make prior medical arrangements with your physician. You should also register with your local power company.
  • If you evacuate, remember to take medications, written instructions regarding your care, special equipment and bedding with you.
  • If you will need assistance in an evacuation or need to go to a special needs shelter, please register NOW with your County Emergency Management Agency.
  • Special needs shelters do not provide hands-on medical care, only medical monitoring. Bring one caregiver with you.
  • If you require hospitalization, you must make prior arrangements through your physician.
  • Please remember that hospitals are NOT shelters. During disasters such as hurricanes, hospitals have a limited number of resources that must be rationed to care for the sick and injured.











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