Why Emergency Preparedness Matters More for Seniors
Published by 24/7 Nursing Care | Emergency Preparedness Series – Part 1 of 3
When Hurricane Ian swept through Florida in 2022, Maria Santos, 78, found herself alone in her Miami
home as the power flickered out. Thanks to her emergency plan and the quick response of her 24/7
Nursing Care team, she weathered the storm safely with her caregiver by her side. This story isn’t unique
—it’s exactly why emergency preparedness can be the difference between safety and vulnerability for
seniors.
The Sobering Statistics
Emergency situations don’t affect everyone equally. According to the CDC, adults 65 and older are
disproportionately impacted by disasters:
• 75% of disaster-related deaths occur in people over 60
• Seniors are 2.5 times more likely to be hospitalized after natural disasters
• 40% of seniors have difficulty evacuating independently during emergencies
• Recovery time for seniors is 3 times longer than younger adults
Here in South Florida, we’re no strangers to these realities. Our communities have weathered countless
hurricanes, and each one teaches us the same lesson: preparation saves lives, especially for our most
vulnerable residents.
Why South Florida Seniors Face Unique Risks
Living in paradise comes with its challenges. South Florida seniors face a perfect storm of emergency
risks:
Hurricane Season Reality
From June through November, we live under the constant possibility of severe weather. Unlike younger
residents who can quickly pack up and leave, seniors often face:
• Mobility limitations that make evacuation difficult
• Medication dependencies that require careful planning
• Chronic conditions that worsen under stress
• Fixed incomes that limit emergency resource options
Power Outages and Medical Equipment
When Hurricane Irma left 6.8 million Floridians without power, seniors dependent on oxygen
concentrators, CPAP machines, and refrigerated medications faced life-threatening situations. What’s a
minor inconvenience for some becomes a medical emergency for others.
Health Crises Don’t Wait
Heart attacks, strokes, and diabetic emergencies don’t pause for hurricanes. In fact, the stress of
emergency situations often triggers medical crises. Having a plan that addresses both the disaster and
potential health emergencies is crucial.
The Vulnerability Factors That Matter MostPhysical Limitations
• Reduced mobility making quick evacuation impossible
• Hearing or vision impairments that delay emergency warnings
• Chronic conditions requiring consistent medication schedules
• Weakened immune systems more susceptible to stress-related illness
Social Isolation
Many seniors live alone or have limited local family support. During Hurricane Matthew, emergency
responders found numerous elderly residents who had no one checking on them and no way to call for
help when their phones died.
Medication Dependencies
The average senior takes 4-5 prescription medications daily. Missing even one dose can trigger serious
complications. During extended power outages, refrigerated medications spoil, and pharmacy closures
make refills impossible.
Cognitive Considerations
For seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, emergencies create confusion and disorientation. Familiar
routines disappear, increasing agitation and making cooperation with emergency procedures difficult.
How Proper Preparation Transforms Fear into Confidence
Emergency preparedness isn’t about living in fear—it’s about creating confidence. When you have a
solid plan, emergencies become manageable situations rather than overwhelming crises.
Consider the difference:
Without a plan: Power goes out, you’re searching for flashlights in the dark, unsure if your medications
will stay cold, wondering if anyone knows you need help.
With a plan: Power goes out, you calmly retrieve your prepared emergency kit, take your medications
from your backup supply, and call your designated emergency contact who already knows your
situation.
Real Stories from Our Community
Robert, 82, Coral Gables: “When Hurricane Irma hit, I thought I was prepared. I had water and canned
food. But when my oxygen concentrator stopped working, I panicked. Now I have a backup battery
system and 24/7 Nursing Care on speed dial. I sleep better knowing I’m truly prepared.”
Elena, 76, Plantation: “My daughter lives in Atlanta and worries constantly during hurricane season.
Having 24/7 Nursing Care as part of my emergency plan gives us both peace of mind. They checked on
me every few hours during Hurricane Nicole, and I never felt alone.”
The Ripple Effect on Families
When seniors aren’t prepared, the stress ripples through entire families. Adult children hundreds of miles
away lose sleep worrying. Local family members feel overwhelmed trying to coordinate care during their
own emergency preparations.But when seniors have comprehensive emergency plans—including professional caregiver support—
families can focus on their own safety knowing their loved ones are protected.
Your Next Steps
Emergency preparedness isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing commitment to your safety and your
family’s peace of mind. In the coming weeks, we’ll guide you through:
• Building your emergency contact network
• Creating a senior-specific emergency kit
• Ensuring continuity of your medical care
• Supporting your family’s preparedness efforts
• Understanding how professional caregivers enhance your safety
Remember, you don’t have to face emergencies alone. At 24/7 Nursing Care, we’ve helped hundreds of
South Florida seniors weather storms, power outages, and health crises safely in their own homes.
Don’t wait for the next emergency to start planning. Contact 24/7 Nursing Care at 855-NURSE-44
to discuss your family’s preparedness plan. Because when you can’t be left alone, we invite
ourselves into your home—and your emergency plan.
24/7 Nursing Care serves Miami-Dade, Broward, Monroe, and Palm Beach counties with 24-hour on-call
support. Our experienced caregivers are trained in emergency response and ready to support you
through any crisis.
