Be Prepared For Natural Disasters | How To Be Prepared For Natural Disasters |PatientsEngage

Responders in yellow outfit helping in disaster management

Natural Disasters can adversely affect elderly people and those with chronic conditions. Dr. Shital Raval details the issues faced and how you can be prepared if you are a caregiver to an elderly person or have a chronic condition like Diabetes, Renal and Respiratory Issues, Allergies, Cancer.

Natural Disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, electrical black-outs, blizzards, cyclones, storms etc.) can have a devastating effect on all but recent studies have thrown light on how gravely it can affect health during and after the calamity. The most common issues faced by people in the affected areas include shock, disaster-associated stress, inadequate medical attention, interruption of care esp. for people with chronic illnesses, lack of sufficient medications, loss of medical documents etc.

Let’s have a look at the impact such disasters can have on 2 groups viz. the elderly and people with non-communicable diseases or NCDs (these include cancer, heart conditions, respiratory/renal illnesses and diabetes).

Elderly Population

The senior citizens are largely the ones with chronic health conditions and mental or physical disabilities. During a natural disaster, the elderly are faced with several problems such as inability to vacate promptly due to poor mobility, restricted access to medical care personnel or centers, compromised physical strength etc. Concerns during a natural emergency are aggravated for patients with health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, dialysis, visual impairment, physical handicap etc. which need continual care, medical equipment and around-the-clock attention. There can also be increased exposure to extreme cold or hot temperatures, lack of clean water, poor nutrition and transportation that all account for increased fatalities amongst the elderly. The aged and frail are especially vulnerable to infections and at a higher risk for morbidity & mortality.

All elderly and their caregivers should have an evacuation plan with the aid of their family and friends who can be reached promptly. They should as a rule always stock-up on extra medications, devices, syringes and any medical aids along with batteries that are required for most medical machines. A complete list of all their healthcare providers, doctors, therapists along with back-up health-care centers for continuity of their care should be made and kept at multiple places and shared with other family members.

Related: How To Help Persons With Dementia Cope with Disasters

Non-communicable diseases or NCDs

Diabetes - Exacerbation in blood glucose levels is commonly seen due to interruption in medication, stress and un-timely intake of meals. In addition, it is difficult to follow routine diet under circumstances when water and food supply is limited. Try to take your medications and meals on time as much as possible. Disaster preparedness recommendations for diabetic patients include self-stress management, being up-to-date on all vaccinations, keeping extra medications/insulin/syringes in multiple places, keeping check on carbohydrate intake (record in a food diary), keeping your glucometer handy, and carrying few sources of sugar to avoid drop in blood glucose levels (such as raisins, cookies, hard candy etc). Also remember to not walk or work excessively to do repair damage and wear protective clothing and shoes. If you have the option and early warnings of a disaster, evacuate beforehand. If you run out of medications or need medical attention, call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital/medical center immediately.
Respiratory diseases - Chronic respiratory illnesses include asthma, COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, occupational lung diseases, pulmonary hypertension. Disruption in medical care and power supply for equipment such as nebulisers & oxygen are the biggest concerns for such patients. Asthma cases have known to increase multi-fold after disasters especially in children. During disaster emergencies, it is recommended that such patients store extra medications/ inhalers/ oxygen cylinders, and evacuate early if possible.
Renal diseases- This includes all patients who suffer from chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, and liver failure. For patients who need dialysis, call your local dialysis unit to see if they are open and or if you need to find another one. Keep a list of Dialysis units that are near you. If you have to manage without dialysis, make sure to go on a strict low protein and fluid diet to keep waste products from accumulating in your system.
Allergies- High levels of mold, dust and allergens in the air cause acute exacerbations in people with allergies. Some recommendations to prevent allergies may include wearing facial and nose masks, wearing gloves and eye goggles, using sanitizers since clean water may not be available, stocking up on anti-allergy pills & injections. Stay away from damaged buildings or structures, avoid crowded areas and evacuate early.
Cancer - Cancer patients can experience disturbance in their treatment protocol (chemotherapy, radiation etc.) due to poor or limited access to their Oncology treatment centers. There may also be reduced access to their specialists, and care providers which can greatly impact cancer care. Patients who are still undergoing treatment should keep a list of all their healthcare providers, stock of medications and emergency contact info of family & friends.

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Here is a simple checklist to plan for any such emergency:

Keep copies of your medical file with current medication list.
Keep an extra copy of your prescription.
Stock at least 2-3 weeks of pills. It is advisable to keep some extra at multiple places besides home such as workplace, car, and on you.
Keep your insurance card and information in your wallet.
If you have a medical bracelet, wear it.
Keep a first-aid kit handy.
Inform your family and friends about your whereabouts and any medical needs.
Keep packets of foods (based on your dietary needs) on you for instant energy and sugar.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Stock water bottles or boil water before use.
Keep sanitizers to clean hands in case there is no availability of soap and clean water.