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What to Do When Disaster Strikes – Seniors Housing Edition
The increase in natural disasters – floods, fires and hurricanes – have led owners of multifamily housing communities to prepare emergency evacuation plans in the event of a worst-case scenario. The seniors housing sector is no exception. Seniors housing receiving reimbursement from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are required to comply with specific emergency preparedness rules. Other seniors housing organizations across the U.S. have adopted their own best practices, while following state and local regulations
Representatives from Brookdale Senior Living and Sunrise Senior Living suggested the following best practices at the recent Argentum Senior Living Executive Conference in San Diego:
Have plans for both residents and staff. Staff might have homes in impacted areas, and need to be considered.
Ensure constant communication. Communication with stakeholders, including providers, residents, staff, family members and local authorities is critical.
Do sweat the small stuff. Details are important, ranging from stocking food and bottled water, to transporting durable medical equipment and medication.
Planning should encompass everything. This would include daily lifestyle activities, dining, paper goods for off-site meals, and emotional support and rest for staff.
The Connect Apartments conference will take place June 26. For more information, or to register, log on here.
For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Amy Sorter
