In many Bahamian households, grandparents, parents, children — even auntie and cousin them — all live under one roof. When a storm is coming, protecting our most vulnerable family members requires extra care, extra planning, and sometimes, extra help.

While younger relatives may ride out a storm with flashlights and snacks, older family members often face more serious risks — from limited mobility and medical needs, to confusion during power outages or sudden evacuations. Add in the emotional weight of displacement, and it becomes clear: prepping for a storm isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Vulnerable family members don’t just mean the elderly — they include anyone with a chronic illness, a disability, or someone who simply moves slower or lives alone. If you have a senior neighbor who doesn’t seem to have anyone checking in, this is the time to reach out. Even a quick call or knock on the door can make the difference between someone being prepared and someone being left behind.

Whether your loved one is staying with you or living on their own, here’s how to make sure they’re truly ready before the winds rise.

📋 Medical Needs Come First

Make sure every elder or vulnerable relative has:

• Two weeks of medication, clearly labeled and packed in a waterproof pouch
• A written list of medical conditions, allergies, and prescriptions
• Any required devices (like blood pressure monitors or glucose meters) with batteries or chargers
• Mobility aids, like walkers or canes, ready and near exits

If they rely on services like dialysis, in-home nurses, or oxygen, call those providers early to confirm an emergency plan.

🧳 Prep a Personal Bag Early

Storm prep isn’t just about the house — it’s about the person.
Each senior should have their own grab-and-go bag ready with:

• Extra clothes, washcloths, and undergarments
• Important IDs and insurance cards (in a Ziploc or document folder)
• Easy snacks and water
• Emergency contacts written on paper (in case phones die)
• Any care notes if someone else has to assist

Label everything. In a shelter or someone else’s home, it helps.

🏚️ Is Your Home Safe Enough?

Take a hard look:

• Is the house low-lying or flood-prone?
• Is the roof solid?
• Is there backup power or ventilation?

If the answer is no — or even maybe — you may need to move them to a shelter or safer home before the storm hits. Not when the wind picks up.

If staying put, assign someone to check in with them regularly and prep their space: clear pathways, stock essentials, and make sure they’re not isolated.

📞 Make the Family Plan Now

Before the storm:

• Assign someone to be the point person for senior relatives
• Confirm who they’re staying with and who’s picking them up if needed
• Share updates and locations with everyone in the family group chat

Storm prep doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it just takes a little coordination and care. With a solid plan in place, you can make sure the whole family stays safe, calm, and connected, no matter what the weather brings.