Hurricanes can bring challenges that no family wants to face unprepared. And when an older loved one is involved, it can be crucial to be proactive—particularly if they live in an assisted living or memory care community. With proper planning, timely action, and the right level of support, even those in high-risk areas can stay safe.
Hurricane preparedness is about being proactive, understanding the risks, creating a solid plan, and gathering the right resources. You can help protect your loved ones during hurricane season by learning more and staying prepared.
Understand Hurricane Risks in Your Area
Not all hurricanes are the same, and understanding what they may bring is a crucial first step. Hurricanes are categorized based on wind speeds—this lets you know the risks and potential damage the storm can cause. A Category 1 storm might bring down tree branches, while a Category 5 can cause severe flooding and structural damage.
For people near coastlines or in low-lying, flood-prone areas, extreme weather poses a heightened risk. Researching local evacuation zones can give your family one less thing to worry about during an emergency.
Assemble a Hurricane Emergency Kit
When a hurricane threatens, the last thing you want to do is scramble for supplies. Having a hurricane emergency kit ready beforehand means you and your loved one can easily access any and all important items.
If you’re not sure what to include in an emergency kit, prioritize:
- Medications and medical devices, with refills if possible.
- Enough non-perishable food and water for 3–5 days.
- Essential documents in waterproof storage, such as IDs and insurance information.
- A weather radio, batteries for essentials, and flashlights.
- Personal items like eyeglasses, mobility aids, or hearing aids.
Planning around a senior’s specific needs adds an extra layer of safety. Your loved one is unique, and so are their needs. If your loved one lives in a senior living community, you can reach out to the community to discuss their preparation and emergency responses.
Develop a Communication Plan
Staying connected becomes even more critical during severe weather. Creating a clear communication plan can mean the difference between worry and peace of mind.
Start by gathering all key contact information in one accessible place. Include:
- Phone numbers for close family members and friends
- Contact information for caregivers or senior living staff
- Local emergency services and disaster hotlines
- Utilities and service providers for power, water, and gas
- A designated out-of-area contact for updates and emergency coordination
Then, make sure you and your loved ones have a fully charged cell phone and an external battery power bank. This helps you stay connected during power outages.
Stay Updated Through Reliable Sources
Accurate, up-to-date information is vital for making informed decisions. The wrong information can easily lead to panic, so make sure your loved one gets their information from reliable sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Meanwhile, local news stations can provide timely details about storm paths and developments. Many areas also offer emergency weather alerts via text messages or calls. Signing up for these services can help ensure seniors receive critical updates no matter the circumstances.
Make Sure Your Home Is Hurricane-Ready
Preparing a home for a hurricane is an essential step. This prevents injuries and minimizes damage, all while giving your family peace of mind.
Some things to remember include:
- Securing loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, planters, and decorations to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
- Installing storm shutters or plywood to protect windows from high winds and flying debris.
- Ensuring the roof is in good condition without any loose shingles or tiles.
- Stocking up on emergency supplies, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and batteries.
- Checking that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.
- Identifying a safe room within the home, preferably one without windows, where everyone can take shelter during the storm.
- Keeping important documents like medical records, insurance papers, and identification in a waterproof container.
These precautions make it significantly easier to stay safe, even during hurricane season.
Evacuate in Advance, When Needed
Sometimes, the safest option is to leave before the storm hits. Acting quickly when evacuation orders are issued is a protective measure that seniors especially benefit from.
Make sure your loved one has a go-bag packed with essential items. It helps to include:
- Medications, a first-aid kit, and a list of prescriptions
- Important documents such as IDs, healthcare cards, and insurance information
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A fully charged phone and portable charger
- Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes
- Personal hygiene items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer
By planning early, your family can avoid the additional stress of last-minute decisions.
Trusting a Senior Living Community
Sometimes, one of the best choices your family can make is an early move to senior living. These communities provide a valuable option for families in high-risk areas. With a mix of professional caregivers, secure community features, and detailed emergency response plans, communities like ours can provide year-round peace of mind.
Your Family Deserves Peace of Mind
Taking steps now to prepare for hurricane season can make all the difference during unpredictable weather. From assembling a kit and securing your home to staying updated through trusted sources, each action helps loved ones stay protected. Remember—by preparing ahead of time, you’re prioritizing their safety.
That’s why our team at Somerby Mount Pleasant works so hard. Your loved one deserves a space where they feel safe, supported, and loved—a place like our community. Contact our team today and schedule your tour.
