Weathering the Storm: A Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Older Adults
As hurricane season peaks from mid-August through October, preparing ahead of time is especially important for older adults — whether you live independently, rely on a caregiver, or are helping care for an aging loved one.
From power outages to medication management, the key to staying safe during severe weather is planning before the storm is even on the radar.
This week’s post includes simple, practical steps you can take right now — even on a limited budget — to feel more confident and secure when storms roll in.
🌧️ Why Older Adults Face Higher Risk in Severe Weather
According to the CDC and the National Institute on Aging, older adults are more vulnerable during natural disasters due to:
Mobility limitations
Chronic conditions that require ongoing care or medication
Sensory impairments (hearing or vision) that may hinder emergency communication
Social isolation, especially when living alone
Increased stress response, which can worsen underlying conditions
These challenges don’t mean helplessness — but they do mean that advance planning is essential.
✅ A Simple Hurricane Prep Checklist for Older Adults
You don’t need to do it all at once. Start with what you can, and build from there.
1. 🏠 Create a Calm-Weather Safety Plan
Know your evacuation zone and routes (contact local emergency services or visit your city’s website)
Make a list of emergency contacts including neighbors, family, Warmly nurse support, or home health providers
Plan who will check on you before and after a storm — and how
2. 💊 Secure Your Medications
Keep at least a 7-day supply of all prescriptions
Store medications in a waterproof bag or container
Have a written medication list in case you need to go to a shelter or emergency room
3. 🔦 Prep an Emergency Kit
If you don’t have a ready-made kit, start with these basics:
Flashlight and extra batteries
Battery-powered radio
Water (1 gallon per person per day)
Non-perishable food for 3+ days
Manual can opener
First aid items
Personal hygiene supplies
Extra glasses, hearing aid batteries, or mobility equipment
4. 📞 Keep Communication Tools Charged & Accessible
Charge phones, backup batteries, and medical alert systems
Write down important phone numbers in case your device loses power or service
5. 👩⚕️ Talk With a Trusted Nurse or Healthcare Provider
If you rely on home oxygen, wound care, insulin, or other time-sensitive treatments, don’t wait to ask what you’d do in a power outage or evacuation. Warmly nurses can walk you through it and help you prepare safely.
🤝 How Warmly Nursing Concierge Can Help
Disasters can feel overwhelming, but having a calm, experienced voice can make all the difference. At Warmly, our nurses are just a call away to help you:
Review your medication and health prep list
Help create or refine your personal safety plan
Talk through any specific medical needs you’re concerned about
Support caregivers with checklists and care coordination tips
You don’t have to navigate this alone — and no question is too small.
💛 Final Thoughts
Planning ahead may not prevent the storm, but it absolutely prevents unnecessary stress, health complications, and emergencies. Whether you live alone or care for an aging parent, building a simple storm plan now is an act of love — and empowerment.
📌 Start small. Make a list. And don’t hesitate to call for support.
Warmly is here to help you weather the storm with confidence.
