How to get your elderly relatives to evacuate willingly, safely, and in time.
On several occasions, the police received calls from elderly people who would not to evacuate their homes. As the storm raged, fear gripped them. In a panic they called for emergency help, but there was little that could be done until the winds calmed down.If you have an obstinate relative who is determined to ride out the storm in their home despite the warnings, how do you convince them to leave?
Dr. Gordon suggests using an array of feeling words.
“You have to understand that with many people, especially the elderly, their home is their safe environment. This is all that they really know, and they are afraid to leave. To them, leaving is a big stressor,” explains Dr. Gordon.
First, Dr. Gordon suggests your figuring out the best plan for them. If your relative has serious medical problems then you need to make plans early. Please see our section for the elderly and infirm.
If you or another relative or close friend lives nearby but in a safer zone, make arrangements for your relative to have all the things they will need to be comfortable. Then plan your strategy for talking with your loved one…and use the children if necessary.
Remember often times people are afraid to be burden. You must make them feel not only wanted, but needed.
Dr. Gordon suggests telling your relative how much you love them, how much you want them to be safe, and how they will be so much safer either with you or whatever pre-arranged location you have determined.
• Tell them that you understand how difficult this is, but that you will help them through it or get help for them.
• Emphasize how important they are to you and how upset you will be if they don’t take proper care of themselves.
• Be reassuring. Tell them that everything will be fine if they follow your plan and how you have spent time making sure they will be safe and comfortable.
• Reiterate how this is only for a very short time and soon they will be back in their own home again.
• If necessary have the grandchildren talk to their grandparents and tell them how much they need them and want to be with them and make them safe.
And, always stress that we will get through this together!
