Essential tips for aged care providers during severe weather events

Extreme weather events like Tropical Cyclone Alfred pose serious challenges for aged care providers, requiring careful planning to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, clients, and staff. Whether operating a residential aged care facility or delivering home care services, preparedness is key to minimising risks and maintaining continuity of care. Here’s how aged care providers can stay ready.

1. Stay Informed and Monitor Updates

Accurate and up-to-date information is crucial during severe weather events. Aged care providers should rely on trusted sources like the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), local council disaster dashboards, and emergency services for real-time updates. Key resources include:

• Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) – Provides cyclone maps and alerts.
• Get Ready Queensland / Get Ready NSW – Offers disaster preparedness guidance.
• ABC Emergency – Delivers live updates via radio and online.

Ensure all staff are aware of these resources and designate team members to monitor updates so timely decisions can be made.

2. Understand the Risks to Your Facility or Clients

Assessing the specific risks of your location helps determine potential threats such as flooding, strong winds, and power outages. Residential aged care facilities should identify structural vulnerabilities, secure outdoor furniture, and ensure emergency exits are clear. Home care providers should check in with clients to assess their individual risks and support needs.

For additional guidance, the Queensland Government’s Residential Aged Care – Planning Resource provides valuable tools for facility managers.

3. Implement and Communicate a Clear Emergency Plan

A well-structured emergency plan is essential for ensuring staff, residents, and clients know what to do in the event of a cyclone or severe storm. This should include:

• Roles and responsibilities of staff members.
• Evacuation procedures, including transport arrangements for residents with mobility challenges.
• Protocols for securing the facility before a storm hits.
• Backup power plans, particularly for essential medical equipment and refrigeration of medications.

Review your emergency plan regularly and conduct training drills so all staff are prepared to act under pressure.

4. Prepare Residents and Clients for Evacuations

In some cases, evacuation may be necessary. Aged care providers should identify:

• Safe evacuation routes.
• Transportation options, especially for residents requiring high levels of care.
• Emergency accommodation or partner facilities that can temporarily house residents if needed.

For home care clients, providers should work with individuals and their families to establish personalised evacuation plans, particularly for those with disabilities or chronic health conditions.

5. Maintain Clear Communication with Families and Stakeholders

During an emergency, regular communication with residents’ families and key stakeholders is essential. Establish a system for providing updates via SMS, email, social media, or phone calls. This reassures families that their loved ones are safe and informs them of any necessary actions they may need to take.

6. Prepare Emergency Kits for Staff and Residents

Each aged care facility and home care client should have access to an emergency kit containing:

• Non-perishable food and bottled water (at least three days’ supply).
• Essential medications and medical equipment.
• Flashlights, batteries, and power banks for communication devices.
• Hygiene products, including incontinence supplies where necessary.
• Important documents such as care plans and emergency contact lists.

7. Provide Emotional and Psychological Support

Severe weather events can cause distress for elderly residents and staff. It’s important to acknowledge their concerns and provide reassurance. Simple steps such as offering regular updates, ensuring familiar routines where possible, and engaging in calming activities can help reduce anxiety. Resources such as the Red Cross RediPlan provide useful strategies for managing stress during emergencies.

8. Plan for Pets in Aged Care

If your facility includes a pet therapy programme or residents have companion animals, ensure they are part of the emergency preparedness plan. Have supplies such as pet food and medications on hand and designate safe areas for animals during the storm.

9. Stay Updated on Road Closures and Transport Disruptions

Severe weather often impacts roads and public transport, which can affect staff attendance and the delivery of essential supplies. Monitor transport updates through QLD Traffic and NSW Traffic to plan accordingly and ensure continuity of care.

Final Thoughts

Being proactive and well-prepared can make all the difference when extreme weather threatens aged care services. By implementing clear emergency plans, maintaining open communication, and supporting both staff and residents, aged care providers can ensure safety, comfort, and resilience during challenging times.

For further resources and official updates, visit Get Ready Queensland, Get Ready NSW, or the Bureau of Meteorology website.