For the past eight years I have written many articles based on the challenges of caring for someone with dementia during hurricane season. To all caregivers I recommend being prepared at all times of the year, in case evacuation becomes necessary for any reason.
Previously, Governor Scott has signed a bill that passed the Senate and the House unanimously, requiring the Division of Emergency Management to develop a special needs shelter registration program for those with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. This bill became law January 1, 2015, and the program was fully implemented on March 1, 2015.
The lack of concern for such special facilities has troubled me over the past few years. I found it shocking how few counties in Florida actually had Alzheimer’s or dementia listed as a disability on the emergency shelter forms.
There’s no question that here in Florida we understand the serious amount of damage severe storms may generate. It’s amazing how a simple summer thunderstorm can quickly turn into something tropical and turn our world upside down.
So, caregivers everywhere, let’s talk about the importance of developing and putting in place an evacuation plan. You do not want to end up in a regular emergency shelter. Your loved one would feed off of the heightened anxiety in that building, causing his or her confusion levels and behaviors to rise to the hilt.
My overall suggestion is this: if at all possible, try to actually stay away from all shelters completely. If you have family or friends who live outside of the path of the storm, consider staying with them. This would be my first choice. (Have this plan in place far in advance, of course.) If you do not have this option, make sure your loved one is on the county’s list of disabilities entitled to their handicap shelters. As I announced earlier, thankfully, here in Florida, we now have that in place.
My biggest concern today is whether or not the staff in these shelters will be properly trained on dementia care. Maybe training them will be another important undertaking for those of us who are knowledgeable in this field.
Having to evacuate your home is stressful enough, but having to do this while caring for someone with dementia is a task I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Caregivers, make sure you have your evacuation kits ready to go. Also, a list of contacts for both you and your loved one, to keep in your possession, is a must in case you get separated. And don’t forget about your pets! Reassure your loved one that his or her pet is going to be okay. You may never get your human charge out of the house, otherwise!
There is a free guide from the National Institute on Aging called “Disaster Preparedness ̶ Alzheimer’s Caregiving Tips” that you can download through their website: http://www.nia.nih.gov/ please avail yourself of this at your earliest convenience!
Of course, unfortunately, it’s not only just the storm we need to prepare for but also its aftermath. After a particular hurricane that I went through with my dad, we had no power for 13 days, which meant no water, since we have a well that runs on electricity. Those were the longest thirteen days of my life!
Think ahead and plan for the worst. And “thank you” to our Florida Government for realizing that dementia is, without a doubt, a disability.