Being Thankful after a Devastation

Donna Nichols • November 2, 2022
An aerial view of a hurricane in the ocean

 

Following the wrath of Hurricane Ian, you may feel you have nothing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, but there is always a silver lining you just have to see it, and believe me, it's there!


It's inevitable that loss of life, home, belongings, jobs, businesses and community will affect everyone, whether they were impacted personally or not. You, or someone you know, may have lost your house, or parts of it, you may have lost your belongings and your furniture, or your car. But you have your life, you have your cherished memories and you have your friends and family.

 

So, how do you cope after a major hurricane? If you know what signs to look for, you can get help sooner thus deterring larger health problems down the road. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a very serious condition that can arise from any kind of natural disaster. If you notice any of the signs below, PLEASE seek help immediately!!

 

Signs can vary from person to person and some people never show any signs of PTSD at all, but the most common signs are outlined below. 


 Emotional signs can include being anxious, fearful and sad, or angry. Feeling guilty is another big emotional sign, especially after a disaster, such as hurricane Ian was. This is referred to as survivor’s guilt. You may feel as though you should have lost your home when you came out unscathed and your neighbor lost everything.

 

These are all normal feelings and it’s like a grieving process. Take the time to let your feelings run their course and then carry on. Do not dwell on your gain/loss; pick yourself up, brush yourself off and get back to business. That is the only way to push through those emotional signs and not let them take over your mental capabilities. PLEASE do NOT try to drink them away or take drugs to numb them!! These solutions are only temporary and will only worsen the situation.

 

Reach out to others for support!!

 

Physical signs which can include gastric and stomach problems, headaches, eating or drinking too much, sweats or chills, shaking and muscle twitches. This is the category I fall into. When I was younger, they called it a nervous stomach. I was always sick with a stomach ache and headache, not knowing it would lead to migraines and severe gastro issues later in life.

 

I am still thankful though because it could be so much worse. This is what I mean about looking for the silver lining. My issues could leave me debilitated, not able to work or play golf, but they don’t. These same issues have others on disability and they are unable to do anything. So, does it suck to have these issues? Yes. Could my situation be worse? Yes. Do I wish things were different? Yes. Can I change the way things are? No. Does it do me any good to stress over the way things are? No. Am I grateful I can still have an active life? YES!!! 

 

Look for that lining!! It’s there!!!

 

There are also behavioral and cognitive signs of PTSD which can result in severe health problems. Some of those include, trouble falling or staying asleep, using too much alcohol, tobacco, drugs, isolation, thinking clearly, concentration, confusion, trouble making difficult decisions and remembering things.

 

Most of these symptoms will dissipate over time. However, if they don’t subside seek medical advice.

 

Here are some tips to help you cope:

 

Here at Assisted Living Made Simple, we are very support group oriented!! Find a support group to help you for your unique situation. There are so many online groups out there; a simple Google search will turn up hundreds of possibilities for you to find the perfect fit.

 

●         Keep in touch with family and friends for support too.

●         Make sure you acknowledge when you are having a stressful moment and deal with it constructively, don’t let emotions get pent up inside you.

●         Share your experiences with others and send support messages. These will not only help others in your situation, but will make you feel better as well.

●         Exercise to help release the endorphins into your body. These are natural mood enhancers and are great for your brain health too!

●         Listen to music and take deep breaths and feel the stress flowing out of your body with every exhale.

●         Eat healthy and drink lots of water.

 

Hopefully some of the above will help you deal with the after affects of hurricane Ian so you are able to find a way to be thankful this November. We are always here for you and are just a phone call away.

 

"Things" can be replaced, YOU cannot! I know the struggle is real, but you can rebuild because you are resilient and it is what we do as human beings! Ask yourself; is this the worst thing that has ever happened to me? If so, count yourself lucky; if it's not, then you know you can get through this too.

And remember, the only way to get to the other side is through!

 

Assisted Living Made Simple is thankful YOU are still with us!! 


A neon sign that says gratitud is surrounded by plants.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.

Weathering the Storm: A Senior’s Guide to Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 3, 2025
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services.  Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.

What do Seniors Want?

By Donna Nichols • May 7, 2025
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.
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