Hurricane: What Seniors Should Prepare
States of emergency were declared in five states, and evacuations were expanded as far north as New Jersey and Connecticut. Estimated 65 million residents on the eastern seaboard will be affected. Millions of vulnerable, elderly individuals live in coastal areas susceptible to hurricanes are at risk for adverse health outcomes. The FDA urges consumers to ensure safety of food, water and medical supplies.
Medical preparation in case of a hurricane lifesaving drugs should be kept safe to avoid water contamination. If lifesaving drugs are exposed to water, the container is contaminated but the contents appear unaffected (pills are dry) the pills can be used until a replacement can be obtained. If the pills are wet they should be thrown away. Other drug products, pills, oral liquids, injections, inhalers should be discarded if they have come in contact with flood or contaminated water.
Insulin storage preparation; Insulin loses its potency according to the temperature and length of exposure. In emergency situations insulin can still be used if needed. If insulin has been stored above 86 °F, it might lose potency resulting in loss of blood glucose over time. Overall insulin should be kept cool as much as possible keeping away from heat and direct sunlight. If using ice, avoid freezing it.
In preparation for life-support and life-sustaining devices that depend on electricity, individuals should contact healthcare providers immediately for information on how to maintain function in the event of power outage. Prior to an event of loss of power call the distributor or device manufacturer to find out if the device can use a battery or a generator. Individuals should contact local public health authority to request an evacuation prior to the hurricane.
Prior to a hurricane event check prescriptions to making sure all prescriptions are filled in case the pharmacy can't be reached or is closed. Read medication emergency usage recommendations and follow the emergency usage recommendations for your medication prior to a hurricane. Keep identification and health insurance card handy at all times in case you need sudden medical attention. Have a gallon of water at home, dehydration for seniors can cause serious health issues.
Studies have found that even a well-experienced population lacked adequate hurricane preparation. Interventions to improve hurricane preparedness should be planned for the elderly.