Preparing for a Natural Disaster as a Caregiver

Preparing for a Natural Disaster as a Caregiver

The day-to-day challenges of being a caregiver are monumental as it is, but in the unfortunate event of a natural disaster they can be multiplied. For a caregiver, being prepared for a natural disaster like a tornado, earthquake or hurricane involves more than just canned food and bottled water – it requires an understanding of the emotional and behavioral needs of their loved one. Preparing for a Natural Disaster as a Caregiver

While nobody ever wants to be faced with a natural disaster, the following tips are an important resource to what to do should the unexpected happen.

Decrease Anxiety:  Limit their exposure to the news, as constant updates can increase anxiety (even if the news update is not relevant to their current situation).
Plan Familiar Activities:  Participate in activities that your loved one is accustomed to, like walking, playing games or listening to music.
Physical reassurance:  A hug or holding one’s hand goes a long way in providing support to someone who is frightened and having difficulty in understanding what is happening.
Communicate Plainly:  Use simple communication. If there is difficulty in understanding, restate in simpler terms. Do not give complex commands and avoid giving too many choices.
Keep to Smaller Groups:  Individuals living with dementia often do better among smaller groups of people
Redirection:  Change the subject when possible. As an example, if they say “I want to go home,” say, “We have to stay here a little longer. In the meanwhile, let’s go for a walk and see if we can get something to eat.”
Keep Up Routines:  Try to maintain daily routines (mealtimes, bathing time, activities) wherever you can.
Show Patience:  Try to be as patient and calm as possible. People living with dementia respond to non-verbal cues.
Reduce Exposure:  Crowds, noisy conversations, strange or different surroundings and changes in routine and sleep patterns can all provoke behaviors. Try to reduce exposure to where you can.
Inform First Responders:  In the event of an evacuation, inform people as appropriate around you that the person has a memory impairment.
Be Observant for Unmet Needs:  Pay attention to other potential causes of behaviors, like hunger, thirst, pain or needing to use the bathroom.
Be Flexible:  Be ready to improvise in familiar situations.

Preparing for a Natural Disaster as a Caregiver

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About the Author

Silverado

Silverado was founded in 1996 with the goal of enriching the lives of those with memory loss by changing how the world cares for people with cognitive decline. Establishing this mindset as the foundation allows Silverado to operate in a way that provides clients, residents, and patients with utmost dignity, respect and quality of life. Silverado has grown to become a nationally recognized provider of home care, memory care assisted living and hospice services. With 54 locations, the company delivers world-class care in seven states- Arizona, California, Illinois, Texas, Utah, Viginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Learn more at silverado.com or call (866) 522-8125.

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