This week, guest blogger Cathy Jo Cress, author of Handbook of Geriatric Care Management, Third Edition and Care Managers: Working with the Aging Family writes that,
Hurricane Beryl hit the east coast in May. More are expected on the Gulf and Atlantic coast this year, including Chris, Debby, Ernesto, Florence, Gordon, Helene, Isaac, and Joyce. Has your agency prepared? Recent disasters like hurricane Katrina in New Orleans have made it painfully clear that the elderly and disabled are at risk in an emergency.
Of course, the rest of the country has its share of disasters. For example, like me, you may be in a region where earthquakes can hit at any time. The mammoth tornadoes across the southern Mississippi valley last year show that disasters come in many forms. Hurricanes, terrorist attacks, and earthquakes may grab the headlines, but blizzards and floods can also obstruct the safe functioning of a professional geriatric care management agency.
Each disaster creates circumstances with specific and perhaps unique dangers and problems that require special attention. However, some general precautions will help you prepare for one of these events.