Caring for the elderly is a sole responsibility for the younger, more energetic generation because the elderly are more at a higher risk of mortality during natural disasters. Natural disasters like flooding strike any time and providing shelter for the elderly if their homes are flooded is the epitome of a caring society.
Most elderly people's sense of touch, smell, sight or hearing are somewhat impaired and the overwhelming crowds and perceived lack of privacy could cloud their judgment on seeking help thus its best to be on the alert when caring for them all the time.
Being prepared can possibly save life, time, reduce stress, anxiety and fear. The below tips are absolutely necessary so as to give shelter for the elderly if their homes are flooded;Â
a. Be prepared.
Know the areas that are more prone to flooding and avoid such areas especially during the flood season. Evacuate the elderly from such areas. Learn about the emergency contacts that you could use in case of such disaster
b. Consider the special needs that the elderly could have and ensure that you can provide them as fast as possible in case of flooding. Develop clear strategies that could help them meet these needs and other problems that would make them more vulnerable to poor conditions like disease
c. Ensure that essential services are met. Some of these services are greatly disrupted during a flood, like food, medication warm clothing, good hygiene.
SHELTERS
Community shelters
A designated community shelter is usually available for people who for one reason or another could not leave the area prior to disaster. These shelters are usually organized by the Red Cross society. The community shelters usually are opened in the event of a large, sudden disaster that's expected to last for several days. Pets are not allowed in shelters and the sheltered are to come with their personal toiletries.Â
These types are quite overwhelming and agitating for the elderly because of the overcrowding, noise and lack of privacy. Very few localities have special shelters for the elders.
Special needs shelters
Residents who are medically dependent have special shelters set up in advance of disaster anticipation. People going to such shelters must come with their own medication, food, bedding and caregiver. Their general location is a school or a public building and usually offers very few bathroom facilities and also has no privacy.
They have medical personnel and require people to register in advance. It should be a last resort for people who cannot go to relatives or friends out of the disaster area.
Nursing homes
These are probably the best shelters for the elderly as they try to provide safe living conditions with most facilities that the elderly may need. Their locations are also appropriate and many times less prone to being affected by sudden natural disasters. The care-takers in this facility, especially give special attention to the elderly, who are at higher risk with maybe disease or are very fragile.
With all said and done, it's so much better to take care of your elderly parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle at home where they are safe, and have all they need for their survival in life.
Most elderly people's sense of touch, smell, sight or hearing are somewhat impaired and the overwhelming crowds and perceived lack of privacy could cloud their judgment on seeking help thus its best to be on the alert when caring for them all the time.
Being prepared can possibly save life, time, reduce stress, anxiety and fear. The below tips are absolutely necessary so as to give shelter for the elderly if their homes are flooded;Â
a. Be prepared.
Know the areas that are more prone to flooding and avoid such areas especially during the flood season. Evacuate the elderly from such areas. Learn about the emergency contacts that you could use in case of such disaster
b. Consider the special needs that the elderly could have and ensure that you can provide them as fast as possible in case of flooding. Develop clear strategies that could help them meet these needs and other problems that would make them more vulnerable to poor conditions like disease
c. Ensure that essential services are met. Some of these services are greatly disrupted during a flood, like food, medication warm clothing, good hygiene.
SHELTERS
Community shelters
A designated community shelter is usually available for people who for one reason or another could not leave the area prior to disaster. These shelters are usually organized by the Red Cross society. The community shelters usually are opened in the event of a large, sudden disaster that's expected to last for several days. Pets are not allowed in shelters and the sheltered are to come with their personal toiletries.Â
These types are quite overwhelming and agitating for the elderly because of the overcrowding, noise and lack of privacy. Very few localities have special shelters for the elders.
Special needs shelters
Residents who are medically dependent have special shelters set up in advance of disaster anticipation. People going to such shelters must come with their own medication, food, bedding and caregiver. Their general location is a school or a public building and usually offers very few bathroom facilities and also has no privacy.
They have medical personnel and require people to register in advance. It should be a last resort for people who cannot go to relatives or friends out of the disaster area.
Nursing homes
These are probably the best shelters for the elderly as they try to provide safe living conditions with most facilities that the elderly may need. Their locations are also appropriate and many times less prone to being affected by sudden natural disasters. The care-takers in this facility, especially give special attention to the elderly, who are at higher risk with maybe disease or are very fragile.
With all said and done, it's so much better to take care of your elderly parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle at home where they are safe, and have all they need for their survival in life.
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