Emergencies are sudden and uncontrollable. They can’t always be prevented, but having a plan to tackle them head-on can make a difference in the outcome. It is easy to forget the most well-known information in times of crisis. There are many ways to prepare for an unexpected situation, and creating a plan that is tailored to your specific needs is crucial. Let’s talk about different ways to prepare.

Keeping our medical records easily accessible in case of an emergency is vital but carrying them all the time can be impractical. The Rocky Mountain Multiple Sclerosis Center offers customized Multiple Sclerosis Identification Cards to individuals living with MS nationally. This card lists vital information, including the individual’s name, address, and emergency contact on one side and common MS symptoms on the back. This card may be useful in an emergency, as it can easily be stored in your wallet, your car, or your luggage and accessed in case of an emergency.

Keeping your emergency contact information at hand can also be done using your phone. You can set an emergency contact and list medical conditions through the Medical ID feature on your iPhone. This can help first responders access lifesaving medical information from the lock screen without needing your passcode. There are also options for other smartphones, such as Android.

For those of us with children, pets, and other loved ones we care for, an emergency can disrupt our schedules and impact those we love. Having a plan can ensure that they are taken care of while we are taking care of ourselves. Keep a record of your children’s school, teachers, extracurricular activities, and schedules. Provide a key to a trusted friend or relative to access your home if needed. Have the necessary supplies for your pets for a couple of weeks and make them easily accessible for friends and family who may be helping care for them.

Keep a packed bag with your essentials if you leave your home rapidly and unexpectedly. Keeping a sealed bag with a change of clothes, medication, and personal supplies may come in handy if you don’t have time to pack or your loved one needs to meet you at the hospital. I like including a comfort item that can bring me peace and comfort at a time of crisis, like a picture of a loved one or a small stuffed animal that has sentimental meaning.

For those who may need additional support at home, a medical alert system may provide the necessary protection to ensure someone responds in case of an emergency. These systems allow an individual to activate a device or press a button in the event of an emergency, and they are especially beneficial for those who live alone or have mobility difficulties.

Emergency planning is all about preparing for and responding to emergencies. Communicating with our loved ones about our needs and discussing their availability and willingness to help is vital to creating a reliable plan. Unexpected situations can be scary, but emergency preparedness can provide peace of mind knowing there is a plan for you and your loved ones.

Wellness is important at every age, especially for those with MS. While our needs naturally change over time, self-care becomes increasingly important as we enter the later stages of life. Aging is uniquely personal. While some may still have the mental and physical capabilities that have kept them independent, others may need additional support to complete daily tasks. Understanding our needs and having access to supportive services and devices can make a difference in our quality of life.

Mobility and independence go hand in hand. Having the necessary equipment may allow an individual to remain living independently for as long as possible. As we age, our balance and physical strength decline. While exercise and physical activity are typically recommended to stay healthy, falls may be a frequent concern. Mobility devices and assistive technology may assist with daily tasks, but sometimes specialized equipment may be needed to fully meet an individual’s needs. While MSAA’s Equipment Distribution Program offers equipment such as walkers, canes, and grab bars, some people may require additional specialized devices to fully meet their needs, such as Hoyer lifts and hospital beds. Occupational therapy and physical therapy may help evaluate our needs and help us adapt.

Daily living activities may be especially challenging for those who may be experiencing cognitive decline or don’t have care partners for assistance. Homecare may offer in-home services to help with these tasks, such as light housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation. A limited support system may also impact socializing. The benefits of socializing are undeniable. It keeps our minds active and is important for cognitive functioning and our emotional well-being. Adult daycare services may be a great resource for those who would like additional social activities outside their home. These services are provided to older adults in a community setting and typically offer a range of events and activities like trivia games, painting, or group conversations.

Planning becomes increasingly important when taking into consideration the specific needs of someone with MS. It can be overwhelming to deal with medical expenses, housing modifications, transportation, and other unexpected costs. Navigating health insurance and Social Security benefits can be complicated, and becoming familiar with government benefits and local and national organizations may ease some of the stress.

For those who would like to explore their local resources, consider the following:

• Center for Independent Living: For those looking for additional support and resources, your local Center for Independent Living may be able to offer a variety of services to promote the independence of people with disabilities and those who are older. Services may include information and referral, independent living skills, individual and systemic advocacy, and equipment loan closets. The ILRU Directory of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and Associations can be found by visiting https://www.ilru.org/projects/cil-net/cil-center-and-association-directory.
• Eldercare Locator: The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging that connects you to services for older adults and their families. Their specialists can assist with information about support services, housing, elder rights, insurance and benefits, health, and transportation. The Eldercare Locator can be accessed by visiting https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/index.aspx.