If you were forced from your home due to a natural disaster, you would need to bring a variety of goods with you, including copies of your financial documents and medications.
This is especially true if you are a family caregiver who is caring for someone who has Alzheimer's or another kind of dementia. When a calamity is impending, there is a lot to consider; make sure you have these items on hand so you'll be more prepared.
- Current photo, in case you get separated.
- Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance cards.
- Identification information: a Social Security card, driver’s license, etc.
- Necessary medical equipment: walker, wheelchair, power cords and/or extra batteries (if applicable), male or female urinal (for travel needs) and incontinence products.
- Important documents including checks and check-writing authority, Power of Attorney and Medical Directives.
- List of medications and doses, medical supplies for seven to 10 days and the medical history of your loved one, along with the names and numbers of pharmacies and doctors.
- Eyeglasses, hearing aids and batteries, if applicable.
- Home insurance policies (a copy will suffice), home inventory and contact numbers of your loved one’s insurance agent or company.
- Financial information: bank accounts, credit card information (copies will suffice).
Taking the time to think about and prepare for the likelihood of a natural disaster – especially when you can do it quietly and rationally – will lessen worry and offer you a sense of control since you'll be better equipped to deal with whatever comes your way.
Making sure you are ready for anything if an emergency arises will help to keep you and your charge calm in light of a difficult situation.