What to Do Before a Hurricane Hits: A Senior’s Preparedness Checklist
As hurricane season begins, many Florida residents are stocking up on bottled water, batteries, and non-perishables—but for seniors, preparation requires more than just storm supplies. If you’re over 65, on Medicare, or supporting a loved one who is, there are unique steps you can take now to protect your health, your benefits, and your peace of mind.
Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help seniors stay safe, secure, and supported before a hurricane strikes.
1. Safeguard Your Medicare and Insurance Documents
In the event of an evacuation or flooding, having access to your Medicare information is critical.
What to do:
- Keep a waterproof copy of your Medicare card, insurance policy numbers, and list of medications in a grab-and-go bag.
- Consider scanning important documents to store them securely in a password-protected phone or cloud-based account.
- Save your insurance broker’s contact information so you can reach them easily for support.
At Covered by Tara, I help clients prepare for these situations ahead of time so they’re not scrambling during a storm.
2. Refill Your Prescriptions in Advance
When hurricanes are forecasted, pharmacies can quickly become overwhelmed or even close temporarily. Don’t wait until the last minute to manage your medications.
Steps to take:
- Contact your pharmacy to request a refill as soon as a storm is projected.
- Check with your Medicare plan about early refill allowances during emergencies.
- Ask your provider or pharmacist about a 90-day supply for maintenance medications if your plan allows it.
- Store medications in a cool, dry, waterproof container that travels easily.
Many Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans include mail-order pharmacy options, which can also help in a pinch—but don’t wait until the final days before landfall.
3. Prepare for Telehealth Access
Telehealth can be a vital lifeline during and after a storm, especially if local clinics or hospitals are inaccessible.
Ensure you’re ready by:
- Confirming your doctor or plan offers telehealth services.
- Writing down your plan’s telehealth number or app login instructions.
- Charging your phone and portable battery packs in advance.
- Asking a loved one or neighbor to help set up your smartphone or tablet if you’re unsure.
If you’re unsure whether your Medicare plan covers telehealth, reach out—I’m happy to review it with you.
4. Create a Personalized Emergency Kit
Beyond food and water, think about what you’ll need to stay healthy and connected.
Essential items for seniors may include:
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- A list of emergency contacts and allergies
- Extra hearing aid batteries or glasses
- Non-perishable nutrition supplements
- Incontinence supplies or other mobility aids
If you have medical equipment that requires power, such as oxygen tanks, speak with your doctor or supplier about backup solutions.
5. Know Your Local Resources and Support Network
Isolation during a natural disaster can be dangerous, particularly for seniors. Build your support system in advance.
Helpful tips:
- Register with your county’s Special Needs Shelter program if you rely on medical equipment or need transportation assistance.
- Connect with neighbors, friends, or a caregiver and create a communication plan.
- Keep a printed list of emergency numbers, including local shelters, utility companies, and Medicare support lines.
If you’re part of a Medicare Advantage plan, check to see if your carrier has an emergency hotline or disaster response team.
6. Review Your Medicare Plan’s Disaster Coverage
Did you know Medicare has certain protections during natural disasters? For example, in federally declared emergencies, you may be allowed to:
- See out-of-network providers at in-network rates
- Get coverage for medically necessary care if you’re displaced
- Receive relaxed rules for Part D prescription refills
Not all plans handle disaster coverage the same way, so it’s worth reviewing your policy before a storm arrives. If you need help, I can walk you through the specifics and help you understand what to expect.
Final Thoughts: Preparation is Protection
Hurricane season can be overwhelming, but with the right steps in place, you can face it with confidence. Whether you’re newly retired or have been on Medicare for years, staying informed and proactive is the key to weathering the storm—literally and figuratively.
If you’d like help reviewing your Medicare plan or need assistance getting prepared before the next big storm, I offer no-cost support for Florida residents.
Reach out today and let’s make sure you’re covered—because when the winds pick up, peace of mind matters most.
Covered by Tara | Local Medicare Support for Volusia and Beyond
Licensed Broker | Serving Seniors with Heart and Clarity
Phone: 386.229.5885 x1
Website: www.coveredbytara.com
