Issue 12.11
During the recent and horrific events in Japan, many seniors were tragically the victims of the earthquake and the following tsunami. Emergency preparedness is especially important for senior citizens because in those unpredictable moments of panic, having a plan could help to save your life.
How do I prepare for an emergency?
Learn how to protect yourself and cope with disaster by planning ahead. Even if you have physical limitations, you can still protect yourself.
* Have a list of telephone numbers available to use in an emergency, i.e. medical doctor, next of kin, etc.
*In case of an actual emergency, Dial 911.
*Have an emergency kit with your identification clearly labeled and stored where you can access it quickly if needed with the following items.
*Water—at least one gallon, in a sealed and unbreakable container
*Canned and packaged food—non-perishable foods including any special foods you require; nutritious and ready-to-eat food is critical
*Non-perishable food for any pets
*Prescription medicines, list of medications including dosage, list of allergies
*First-aid kit
*flashlight with extra batteries stored
*Label any equipment, such as wheelchairs, canes or walkers that you would need.
*Extra eyeglasses, hearing aid batteries and oxygen
*List of the style and serial numbers of medical devices such as pacemakers.
*Emergency blanket/sleeping bag
*Non-electric can opener
*Phone numbers of local and non-local relatives or friends
What do I do if I live by myself?
*Have an alert device that will notify an ambulance and/or a family member, caregiver or neighbor if you are in trouble.
*If you are in a wheelchair or cannot get out of your house, stay by the window near the floor. If you are able, signal the need for help.
*Test all smoke alarms regularly.
*Consider adding a carbon monoxide alarm to your house
*Plan an emergency escape route if it is necessary to get out of the house quickly. Make sure your loved one knows what to do if there is a fire or another type of emergency.
Molina Medicare 1-866-403-8293 TTY 1-800-346-4128 8 AM – 8PM local time, 7 days a week