Florida experienced several major storms in 2024, and as we move into September and October — traditionally the most active months of hurricane season — families across the state are once again preparing for the possibility of severe weather. For those with senior loved ones, especially those with health conditions, mobility challenges, or cognitive impairments, hurricane preparation takes on an added level of urgency. Whether your loved one lives alone, resides with you, or is in an assisted living facility, there are steps you can take now to ensure their safety and peace of mind during a storm.
If Your Senior Loved One Lives Alone as a Hurricane Approaches
Seniors who live independently may be especially vulnerable during a hurricane. Here’s how you can support them:
Create a Personal Emergency Plan Together: Review evacuation routes, shelter locations (including special needs shelters), and a communication plan. Make sure they know who to call and what steps to take if a storm is approaching.
Stock an Emergency Kit: Set aside a week’s supply of medications, water and non-perishable food. Be sure they have flashlights, batteries, medical documents, and important contact information on hand.
Backup Power for Medical Devices: If your loved one uses oxygen, a CPAP machine, or other powered medical equipment, work with their provider or power company to ensure backup power options are in place.
Daily Check-ins: As storms approach, increase the frequency of check-ins. Video calls or daily phone calls offer reassurance and allow you to assess their condition remotely.
Consider Early Relocation: If evacuation is a possibility, consider bringing your loved one to stay with family well before the storm makes landfall. Last-minute evacuations can be chaotic and dangerous.
If Your Senior Loved One Lives With You
Living under the same roof allows for more direct support during a hurricane, but it also requires proactive planning:
Assign Clear Roles: Make sure all family members know who is responsible for what — from gathering supplies to monitoring weather updates to helping your loved one with mobility.
Create a Calm, Comfortable Environment: Seniors can become anxious with all the noise and uncertainty of a storm. Prepare a designated safe room with comfortable seating, blankets, snacks, and familiar items that bring comfort.
Have a Power Outage Plan: Prepare meals that don’t require electricity, and have backup chargers or a generator ready. If your loved one uses a stair lift or elevator, plan for how they’ll navigate without power.
Communicate Simply and Clearly: If your senior has dementia or cognitive issues, avoid overwhelming details. Reassure them often, speak calmly, and keep routines as normal as possible.
Include Them in the Process: Even small tasks — like helping pack a bag or organizing supplies — can give them a sense of control and reduce anxiety.
If Your Senior Loved One is in Assisted Living During a Hurricane
Assisted living facilities are required to have hurricane preparedness plans, but families should still stay involved and informed.
Review the Facility’s Emergency Plan: Ask for a copy of their hurricane preparedness protocol. Where will residents go in the event of an evacuation? Do they have generators? What is their communication plan with families?
Prepare a “Go Bag” for Your Loved One: Include personal items, medical info, ID, extra glasses or hearing aids, snacks, water, and comfort items. Label everything clearly.
Stay in Touch with Staff: Maintain regular contact with the facility, especially as a storm approaches. Make sure they have your up-to-date contact information.
Visit or Arrange a Virtual Call: Before and after the storm, a visit or video call can help ease anxiety and give you peace of mind about your loved one’s well-being.
Prepare for a Hurricane, But Don’t Panic
An approaching hurricane can cause anxiety – especially for families with elderly loved ones. By planning ahead and prioritizing both physical safety and emotional well-being, you can help your senior family member feel safe and cared for — no matter where they live.
A Banyan Residence is a professional memory care and assisted living community, with locations in Venice and The Villages. If you have a loved one in one of our facilities, we welcome any questions. If you are looking for quality care for your loved one
