As hurricane season intensifies across the United States, it's crucial for everyone to be prepared. For our senior community members, these preparations take on an even greater importance. At IMA Medical Group, your health and safety are our top priorities. Here's a comprehensive guide to help seniors navigate hurricane season with confidence and peace of mind.

Before the Storm: Preparing Your Home and Health

1. Create a Personalized Emergency Plan:Don't wait until a storm is on the horizon. Sit down with family, friends, or caregivers to develop a clear emergency plan. This plan should include:

• Evacuation Routes: Know your designated evacuation zone and routes. Practice them if possible.
• Meeting Points: Establish a meeting place outside your home and another outside your neighborhood in case you get separated.
• Contact Information: Keep a written list of important contacts, including family, doctors, pharmacies, and emergency services. Don't rely solely on your cell phone.

2. Assemble an Emergency Kit:Your kit should be easily accessible and contain enough supplies for at least three to seven days. For seniors, consider these additions:

• Medications: A minimum of a two-week supply of all prescription and over-the-counter medications. Include a list of medications, dosages, and any allergies.
• Medical Supplies: If you use medical equipment (e.g., oxygen, glucose monitor, hearing aids), ensure you have extra batteries or power sources. Don't forget any necessary supplies like catheters, ostomy bags, or wound care items.
• First-Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal care items.
• Food and Water: Non-perishable food items that are easy to open and don't require cooking. Aim for one gallon of water per person per day.
• Important Documents: Keep copies of insurance policies, medical records, wills, and other vital documents in a waterproof bag.
• Comfort Items: A blanket, comfortable clothing, and personal hygiene products.
• Cash: ATMs may not be operational after a storm.

3. Safeguard Your Home:Take steps to secure your living environment.

• Yard Maintenance: Trim trees and bushes. Secure loose items like patio furniture, garbage cans, and decorations that could become projectiles.
• Window Protection: Install hurricane shutters or board up windows.
• Generator Safety: If you have a generator, ensure it's in good working order and you know how to operate it safely (never indoors!).

During the Storm: Staying Safe and Calm

1. Stay Informed:Monitor local news, weather radio, and official government alerts for updates and instructions. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for when power is out.

2. Follow Evacuation Orders:If authorities issue an evacuation order for your area, leave immediately. Do not delay. Know where your local shelters are and if they can accommodate specific medical needs.

3. Power Outages:Be prepared for extended power outages.

• Food Safety: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to preserve food. Discard any perishable food that has been exposed to temperatures above 40°F for two hours or more.
• Medical Equipment: If you rely on power-dependent medical equipment, have a backup plan (e.g., portable oxygen tanks, manual blood pressure cuffs).
• Flashlights & Candles: Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.

4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished:Even during stress, continue to eat regular, healthy meals and drink plenty of water to maintain your energy and health.

After the Storm: Recovery and Rebuilding

1. Assess Your Home and Surroundings:Be cautious when re-entering your home if you evacuated. Watch for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.

2. Check on Loved Ones:Once it's safe, reach out to family, friends, and neighbors, especially other seniors, to ensure their well-being.

3. Health Concerns:The aftermath of a hurricane can be stressful and lead to new health challenges.

• Water Safety: Do not drink tap water until authorities declare it safe. Use bottled water or boil water before consumption.
• Injury Prevention: Be careful of debris, standing water, and sharp objects.
• Mental Health: It's normal to feel anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed. Talk to loved ones, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're struggling. IMA Medical Group is here to support your overall well-being.
• Medication Refills: If you lost or ran out of medications, contact IMA Medical Group or your pharmacy as soon as possible.

4. Mosquito Control:Standing water after a hurricane can lead to increased mosquito populations, raising the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.

Being prepared is the best defense against the challenges of hurricane season. At IMA Medical Group, we encourage all our senior patients to take these steps seriously. If you have any concerns or need assistance with your emergency planning, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Helpful Links:

• FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency): Ready.gov – Comprehensive hurricane preparedness information. https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
• CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): Emergency preparedness for older adults. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/emergency/index.htm
• National Hurricane Center (NOAA): Latest hurricane forecasts and information. https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
• American Red Cross: Hurricane safety tips. https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/hurricane.html