Hurricane Season Looms: Long-Term Care Facilities Gear Up for Resident Safety
As the Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off on June 1st, long-term care facilities across the country, but particularly in hurricane-prone states like Florida, are ramping up preparations to ensure the safety of their vulnerable residents. With these storm threats on the horizon, long-term care facilities prioritize resident well-being by implementing comprehensive disaster plans.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a busy hurricane season for the Atlantic this year. Forecasters say there's an 85% chance of above-normal activity, with 17 to 25 named storms possible. Out of those, 8 to 13 could become hurricanes, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes.
There are several reasons for the expected increase. The Atlantic Ocean is unusually warm, which fuels storms. La Nina conditions are developing in the Pacific, another factor influencing Atlantic hurricane activity. Trade winds are also expected to be weaker than usual, and there will be less wind shear, making it easier for storms to form and strengthen.
NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad says as we face another active hurricane season, the agency is dedicated to providing life-saving information to all Americans.
FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks says that they are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding, and hail.
Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today.
Florida Takes the Lead
The Florida Health Care Association (FHCA), a leading advocate for long-term care facilities in the Sunshine State, urges Floridians to be aware of the comprehensive storm response plans these facilities have in place.
"When catastrophic storms take aim at Florida, it's imperative for our members to respond with the preparedness plans they have in place," said Emmett Reed, CEO of FHCA.
Our members have comprehensive emergency plans outlining their practices and the resources needed before, during, and after a natural disaster to ensure the care and safety of their residents and the staff who care for them.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says the state is prepared for hurricane season.
The newer construction can withstand strong hurricanes. We're going to continue to have them whether they're worse or not. I don't know if there's data for that, but I think some people assert that, but either way we're in a situation where, you know, this stuff has worked.
Governor Ron DeSantis praised Florida Power & Light (FPL) for upgrading its infrastructure. He said these improvements protected critical equipment and significantly reduced power outage restoration times compared to previous storms.
FPL, for example, raised some of their substations. So even during major flooding events in parts of the state, the substations weren't submerged. That means the difference between getting people's power back on within 48 hours instead of weeks.
Nationwide Focus on Preparedness
While Florida faces a heightened threat due to its geographic location, Long-Term Care facilities nationwide are taking proactive steps to safeguard residents during emergencies.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency overseeing Long-Term Care facilities, offers a toolkit with resources and best practices for emergency preparedness.
Planning and Partnerships are Key
FHCA members prioritize year-round preparedness through their Comprehensive Emergency Management Plans. These plans typically include:
- Fuel checks and generator preparations
- Disaster planning and drills
- Emergency supply restocking
- Facility hardening (fortifying structures)
- Communication plans
- Partnerships with emergency management offices, utilities, and transportation providers
Evacuation planning is a critical component, especially for facilities in high-risk areas. These plans address the unique needs of residents, including those with physical disabilities or memory impairment, to ensure safe and efficient transport during an evacuation.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is creating awareness about the dangers of hurricanes and the precautions Texans can take as hurricane season approaches.
With hurricane season approaching, it is crucial for all Texans to be prepared for the potential of devastating and powerful storms that may reach our shores. By implementing proactive measures, we can stave off the worst eventualities, protect the lives and well-being of all Texans, and keep our great state safe.
Collaboration and Communication
Regular communication and collaboration with local and state authorities are essential. FHCA recently participated in a stakeholder meeting with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and the Florida Division of Emergency Management to discuss ongoing efforts to ensure resident safety.
Education and Training
Resident safety goes beyond physical well-being. Many Long-Term Care facilities offer educational programs and training for staff to ensure they're prepared to handle emergencies effectively. FHCA, for example, recently conducted an emergency preparedness webinar for assisted living facilities and a Life Safety training for nursing center staff.
Establishing clear communication channels before, during, and after a storm is essential.
"Throughout an active emergency situation, FHCA steps in to provide members with briefings, facilitate communications, and field questions," said Reed.
The planning and preparedness efforts our members put in throughout the year allow for streamlined and efficient action when disaster strikes.
By prioritizing resident safety through comprehensive planning, collaboration, and ongoing education, LTC facilities can navigate hurricane season with confidence, ensuring the well-being of their most vulnerable residents."
When Disaster Strikes: Challenges Faced by Long-Term Care Facilities
Long-term care facilities, like nursing homes and assisted living centers, house some of the most vulnerable members of our society. These facilities face unique challenges during natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, or wildfires.
Here's a closer look at some of the major issues:
- Evacuation Difficulties: Residents of long-term care facilities often require specialized care and may have limited mobility. Evacuating large numbers of people quickly and safely can be a logistical nightmare, especially during chaotic weather events. Facilities need to have detailed evacuation plans in place, including transportation arrangements for those who are unable to walk or self-evacuate.
- Power Outages and Climate Control: Loss of power due to downed lines or damaged infrastructure can be life-threatening in long-term care settings. Facilities rely on electricity for essential medical equipment, temperature control (critical for both heat and cold waves), and basic necessities like lighting and refrigeration. Backup generators are essential, but ensuring they have sufficient fuel and can handle the entire facility's needs is crucial.
- Staffing Shortages: Natural disasters can disrupt normal staffing patterns, as employees may be dealing with their own storm damage or have difficulty reaching the facility due to impassable roads. Ensuring adequate staffing levels is vital to maintain resident care and safety during these emergencies.
- Medical Supply Disruptions: Disasters can disrupt supply chains, making it difficult to obtain essential medical supplies like medications, oxygen, and hygiene products. Long-term care facilities need to maintain stockpiles of these critical supplies to bridge any gaps caused by transportation disruptions.
- Emotional and Mental Well-Being: Natural disasters can be frightening and disorienting for everyone, but especially for older adults and those with cognitive decline. Facility staff must be prepared to provide emotional support and maintain a sense of calm for residents during a stressful event.
Communication with Families
During hurricanes, communication between families and long-term care facilities becomes vital. Worried families crave updates on their loved ones' safety while facilities struggle to manage storm response and maintain clear communication channels.
With limited power, TV and internet services may be down or interrupted. Battery-powered radios can prove especially critical in understanding the weather and the level of seriousness of any storm so families can better understand the situation, whether they live nearby or not.
Facilities should have a comprehensive communication plan in place, utilizing multiple methods like phone calls, emails, and social media to keep families informed about the situation, evacuation procedures (if applicable), and any urgent needs. Proactive communication helps to alleviate family anxiety and fosters a sense of trust and collaboration during stressful and unpredictable times.
Meanwhile, weather predictions are just that, predictions. However, being prepared in advance, especially for those living in long-term care situations at home or in a facility where storms are likely, will ease the minds of car recipients and their families.