At Home Care, Inc. | Caring for Mississippi’s Seniors Since 1998
Living independently is a meaningful and empowering choice for many older adults. However, unexpected circumstances, such as a storm, power outage, or medical emergency, can make a calm day perilous. Because of this, being ready is not only wise but also necessary. We at At Home Care, Inc. have been walking with Mississippi’s seniors for more than 25 years, ensuring they are safe, comfortable, and well-cared for in their homes. This blog serves as our way of giving back by providing helpful, considerate advice on how to make you or a loved one feel more secure and safe in any situation.
1. Make It Personal: Create an Emergency Plan That Works for You
Everyone’s needs are different. A one-size-fits-all strategy won’t work because of this. Your plan should be tailored to you, no matter whether you have diabetes, use oxygen, or just depend on a routine to keep stable.
Start with:
• A list of medicines on prescription, doses, and schedules
• Names and phone numbers of emergency contacts
• Your doctor’s and hospital’s information
• Health issues, allergies, and equipment (such as a walker or CPAP)
• Backup power or transportation needs
Quick Tip: Keep a waterproof folder with your emergency information next to the fridge or front door. Share it with someone you trust.
2. Pack a Kit That’s Simple and Senior-Friendly
If the power goes out or you need to leave your home quickly, having a go-bag ready can bring
peace of mind.
What to pack:
• Medication for 3 to 5 days (with instructions)
• One gallon of bottled water each day plus food that is easy to open
• A flashlight and batteries
• Clothing that has seen better a first aid kit, and a warm blanket
• ID, insurance card, and prescription copies
• Manual can opener, spare glasses, and hearing aid batteries
Comfort matters: Add a prayer card, favorite picture, or book. During difficult times, familiar objects might help calm the heart. Need help building your kit? On everyday life visits, our caretakers are pleased to offer support.
3. Stay in Touch—Because No One Should Go Through It Alone
Emergencies can be alarming, especially when you’re alone. A simple check-in could save a life.
Stay connected with:
• A daily call from a family member or neighbor
• Medical alert systems with fall detection
• Smart speakers like Alexa or Google Home
• Regular check-ins from your At Home Care aide
Knowing that someone will notice if something goes wrong and take prompt action gives you peace of mind.
4. Make Your Home Safer Before Trouble Hits
Even when the roads close or the lights go out, your house should keep you safe. Small changes can make a big difference.
Easy upgrades:
• Night lights in key areas
• Flashlights by the bed and chair
• Clear, uncluttered walkways
• Easy-access medication spots
• Monthly checks on smoke/CO detectors
• Clearly labeled breaker box
Bonus: Ask us about a free in-home safety assessment. We’ll help spot risks and suggest helpful updates.
5. Be Ready for Health Emergencies Too
Medical preparedness should be a part of your emergency plan if you have diabetes, heart disease, or COPD.
Prep by:
• Wearing a medical alert bracelet
• Keeping medical devices (like CPAPs or oxygen) ready
• Having test kits and inhalers nearby
• Posting emergency numbers near every phone
Our trained caregivers are always ready to step in with calm, capable support when you need it most.
6. Know Who to Call and Where to Go
Mississippi is liable to severe weather events like heat storms and waves. Being aware of your local resources can save your life.
Your checklist:
• Sign up for emergency alerts (like CodeRED)
• Know the nearest senior-friendly shelters
• Register with utility companies for medical priority
• Plan your evacuation routes now—not later
Need help? Give our Port Gibson office a call. We’ll walk you through local contacts and registrations.
7. Protect Emotional Wellness Too
Emergencies don’t just shake up routines—they can rattle the heart. Long after the threat has passed, seniors may still experience the impacts, particularly if they have dementia or hopelessness.
Watch for signs like:
• Trouble sleeping or eating
• Confusion or unusual fear
• Withdrawal or silence
• Irritability or forgetfulness
We offer mental health and psychosocial support to help seniors recover emotionally—not just physically.
8. Build a Circle of Trust
Independence doesn’t mean isolation. A few good people in your corner can make all the difference.
Your support team might include:
• A neighbor who checks in
• A friend with a spare key
• A church group that lends a hand
• Our dependable CNAs and PCAs
Our caregivers braved the roads to deliver medications, hot meals, and peace of mind during the recent severe weather. That is a strong circle’s power.
9. Include Caregivers in the Plan
Your emergency plan should be understood and used by your caregiver, whether they are a member of your family or a professional.
They can help with:
• Running practice drills (like how to exit safely)
• Checking medical supply levels
• Coordinating with 911 or first responders
To be prepared to act and provide composure when the unexpected occurs, our team practices on a regular basis.
10. Use Technology That’s Made to Help
You don’t need to be tech-savvy to benefit from modern tools. Peace of mind can be achieved with a small setup.
Helpful devices:
• Fall detectors and emergency buttons
• Smart pill organizers with alarms
• Door sensors for added safety
• Voice assistants for hands-free help
Not sure where to start? Let’s assist with the setup. Our goal is to make technology approachable, not annoying.
11. Learn from Every Emergency
After a close call, take time to talk about what went well—and what didn’t. Adjust your plan with those lessons in mind.
Ask yourself:
• Were supplies easy to find?
• Did someone check in quickly?
• Do any new needs need to be added?
Families who reflect and revise together build stronger, more responsive plans. And we’re always here to help you review.
12. Our Promise to You
We at At Home Care, Inc. witness the silent bravery involved in living on one’s independent. Standing by your side on both normal and unusual days is an honor. We’re always thinking ahead, so you don’t have to worry alone, whether that means making sure your phone is charged or helping you put together an emergency kit. Because even emergencies can be handled with grace and strength if the proper care, strategy, and heart are in place.
Final Thoughts: Safety with Dignity, Every Step of the Way At Home Care, Inc. knows that aging alone doesn’t mean aging without support. We have been walking with Mississippi’s seniors for more than 25 years, through routines and unforeseen storms, all with the same goal: to preserve their freedom while circling it with community, compassion, and care. Although dealing with emergencies is never easy, you don’t have to do it alone. Seniors can remain safe and secure in their home, which is the place they love the most, with careful planning, a network of reliable people, and little assistance from caring experts. We are only a phone call away if you or a loved one needs help building a supply kit, putting together an emergency plan, or locating nearby resources. In addition to assisting seniors with preparation, At Home Care, Inc. is here to support their success. Because safety isn’t just a plan. It’s peace of mind.