Aging and Assisted Living: Assessing the Effects of Hurricane Helene on Facilities in North Carolina
The Dangers of Power Outages in Elder-Care Homes
When Hurricane Helene struck, assisted living centers in Alexander County, Buncombe County, and Burke County experienced severe disruptions. With the power grid down, older adults faced potential health risks.
Preparedness for Future Disasters
State regulations currently do not mandate automatic backup power for all long-term care facilities, raising questions about safety during emergencies. Facilities in Catawba County and Caldwell County need to assess their risk management strategies.
- Older Adults and Health Risks: Vulnerable populations require consistent care.
- Role of Area Agencies on Aging: These organizations must advocate for better safety measures.
As North Carolina faces an increasing number of weather events, it is vital for retirement facilities to prioritize the well-being of older residents.
The Importance of Community Support
Initiatives like Friends of Residents in Long-Term Care play a crucial role in advocating for better living conditions for older adults. Ongoing support from state officials, like Rep. Julia Howard, is essential in driving these changes.
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