Disaster Proof Your Health

When disaster hits—weather, power outages, evacuations—your health doesn’t get a pause button. If you rely on medications, medical devices, or regular care, preparation isn’t optional. It’s survival.

After watching so many natural disasters happening across our country over the past year, I felt compelled to write this newsletter. I want you all to be prepared.

What Every Health Disaster Kit Must Include

1. A Minimum 7-Day Medication Supply

  • Prescription meds (rotate regularly)

  • Over-the-counter essentials (pain, allergy, GI, fever)

  • Written medication list (drug, dose, timing, prescriber, pharmacy)

2. Medication Temperature Protection

  • Instant cold packs for insulin and biologics

  • Insulated medication bag or cooler

  • Clear label: “Refrigerated Medications – Do Not Freeze”

3. Easy Access to Critical Health Documents

  • Medication list

  • Insurance cards

  • Advance directives / healthcare proxy

  • Allergies & chronic conditions
    (Paper copy + photo on your phone = double coverage)

4. Medical Devices & Supplies

  • Extra batteries or charging cords

  • CPAP supplies, inhalers, glucose monitors

  • Mobility aids (canes, braces, compression)

5. Personal Health Basics People Forget

  • Eyeglasses/contact supplies

  • Hearing aid batteries

  • Compression socks

  • Hydration packets

  • Hand sanitizer & basic wound care

6. Emergency Contacts—Written, Not Just Saved

  • Phones die. Write them down.

Pro Tips

(Because Experience Matters)

  • Refill meds before storms, not after warnings

    • You can also review federal emergency preparedness recommendations at Ready.gov.

  • Ask your pharmacy and CALL YOUR INSURANCE about emergency refills

  • If you evacuate, meds go with you—always

  • Don’t assume shelters can manage complex medication needs

  • If you have parents in assisted living or nursing care make sure you have a kit for them too, don't rely on the staff to have it all for them

Not sure if your plan actually works in real life?
Ask the Advocate—before the emergency, not during it.

✨ Stay confident. Stay informed. Stay Taylormade.

Previous
Previous

Love Your Heart (and Your Brain) 💓

Next
Next

CCRCs: What They Are—and What to Look at Before You Sign Anything