Planning for a hurricane or major storm is critical for those with a mobility disability. If you are a senior or disabled person in South Florida, then you will have to face Hurricane season at some point. The season runs annually from June 1st through November 30th. Palm Beach and Broward County offer senior home care resources for people with disabilities. You should maintain a list of all emergency services and medications that you may need.
Here are 7 Tips to prepare if you do have a mobility disability
- Prepare an evacuation plan in case the need should arise. Plans can include staying locally with friends or family, evacuating outside of the threatened area or relocating to a shelter.
- If you use a power wheelchair, then you may want to consider having a lightweight manual chair available as a backup. Know the size and weight of your wheelchair in addition to whether or not it is collapsible, in case it has to be transported. Your home health aid may assist with finding the specs of your wheelchair.
- Purchase an extra battery for a power wheelchair or other battery-operated medical or assistive technology devices. If you are unable to purchase an extra battery, than you should find agencies, organizations, or local charitable groups that can help you with the purchase. Keep extra batteries on a trickle charger at all times.
- If your wheelchair or scooter wheels are not puncture proof, consider keeping a patch kit or can of sealant for flat tires and/or extra inner tube. (from Nusura/CalEMA)
- Keep an extra mobility device such as a cane or walker, if you use one.
- If you use a seat cushion to protect your skin or maintain your balance, and you must evacuate without your wheelchair, take your cushion with you. Your companion care assistant will help with these details.
- Review FPL’s Hurricane Guide for Seniors.
See our Senior Resources for important senior home care services if you live in Broward or Palm Beach County.
