Were you aware of what most residents of Florida know, hurricane season is officially in full swing and forecasters predict 2023 may be on track to experience above-average storm activity? Do you have aging parents living in their own home in Florida? Because of the potential for three to six major hurricanes in the upcoming months, as well as what we went through last year, it is essential to take proactive steps to ensure that both your aging parents and their home are well-prepared to face these challenges head-on.
In view of the fact that this is a looming threat, it is crucial to equip yourself with knowledge and practical strategies to safeguard your aging parents, their property and their assets. We would like to share a few hurricane preparedness tips that you will need to use to assist your aging parents in their hurricane preparedness.
Storm-Proof the Home of Your Aging Parents. Begin by assessing the vulnerabilities of the home of your aging parents. Repair and reinforce hurricane shutters to shield windows from flying debris and heavy winds. Inspect their roof for loose shingles or tiles that could become projectiles during a storm. To prevent flooding, ensure that basements, doors, and windows are adequately sealed to keep water at bay. With an approaching storm it would be wise to evacuate your parents or hunker down with them in their home.
Secure All Outdoor Items. Before the winds pick up, it is wise to secure or stow away any outdoor items that could be carried away by powerful gusts. Patio furniture, umbrellas, potted plants, and other loose objects can become dangerous projectiles in a hurricane. Safely store these items in the garage of your aging parents or indoors to prevent them from causing damage to their property or neighboring structures.
Be Sure to Review the Insurance Coverage Of Your Aging Parents. The insurance policies of your aging parents play a critical role in safeguarding their financial stability during and after a hurricane. Take the time to thoroughly review their insurance coverage to ensure that it is up-to-date and adequate. Check if they have comprehensive coverage for both flooding and the costs associated with rebuilding and repairing their property. Additionally, do not forget to assess their vehicle insurance, as falling trees, debris, and rising water could put their car at risk.
Be Sure to Document and Inventory Valuables. In the event of significant damage, having an accurate record of the valuables of your aging parents is essential for insurance claims. Create a detailed inventory of items they wish to be covered under their insurance. Include descriptions, photographs, and serial numbers if applicable. This documentation will facilitate the claims process and increase the likelihood of fair compensation for their losses.
Preserve Important Documents. Amid the chaos of a hurricane, crucial documents can easily be lost or damaged. Make sure to create hard copies of the vital documents of your aging parents, including their Florida estate planning, insurance policies, medical information, identification, property titles, vehicle registration, and proof of ownership for assets. Store their documents in a waterproof container, and consider keeping another set of copies on a secure digital platform, such as a hard drive, thumb drive, or cloud storage, for added security.
With hurricane season here, taking these proactive steps can make a world of difference in safeguarding the home of your aging parents, their assets, and their peace of mind. By storm-proofing their home, securing outdoor items, reviewing insurance coverage, documenting valuables, and preserving important documents, you are setting your aging parents up for a more secure and resilient future in the face of potential adversity.
Navigating the complexities of hurricane preparedness and insurance coverage might begin to raise questions for you and your aging parents. If you and your aging parents need clarity or guidance, do not hesitate to make an appointment with our office. Our knowledgeable experts can provide the insights and information you need to ensure that your aging parents are adequately protected during this unpredictable storm season.
We know this topic may raise more questions that it answers and want to help you plan for the future, and the unexpected. Whether you're young and single or a married five-time great grandparent, your voice and wishes need to be known. Worley Elder Law, based in beautiful Bradenton, Florida, focuses on helping you understand your options in designing your Estate Plan or Elder Law needs. Whether it's preventative incapacity planning or establishing your legacy, we will take the time to explain every option and work with you to create a customized plan just as unique as you and your family are. Please do not hesitate to contact us to let us help you.