How to Navigate Supply Chain Shortages as a Senior Caregiver

Supply chain shortages continue to shake people across the United States. While some of those are simply frustrating--not being able to find your preferred brand of toilet paper on the shelves of your favorite Metairie store, for example--others can prove devastating. What happens if you cannot find the materials you need as a senior caregiver, or if you cannot find a senior's preferred foods or other items? Preparing ahead of time for potential supply chain shortages can make it easier to navigate those challenges.

1. Prepare Your Budget Ahead of Time

Take a close look at your budget. Food costs are around 8% higher across America today than they were just a year ago, and New Orleans is no exception. Evaluate your budget, including what is available to spend on luxury or important items. You may want to set aside some funds for emergency essential purchases ahead of time.

2. Try to Create an Emergency Supply of Vital Medications

If you're caring for a senior who may have serious medical needs, talk to your senior's doctor about the potential for shortages of your loved one's medications. Can the doctor help provide some samples to set aside against an emergency? What options are available for securing some extra doses of essential medications that could carry you through a difficult period or shortage?

3. Purchase a Few Extras of Essential Supplies

Americans have become accustomed to the fact that they may see empty spots on the shelves when they arrive at the store. If your senior is not a picky eater, you may want to lay in extras of essential supplies that will last for a long time, including non-perishable foods. Don't feel as though you have to overstock, especially on non-essential items. However, you may want to start picking up a couple of extra items each time you do the grocery shopping. 

4. Look for Ways to Store a Few of Your Senior's Favorite Food Items

Sometimes, treats are easy enough to store. Snack cakes, chips, and canned goods, for example, may stay good for months in the cabinet. Other items may prove more difficult to store. Look into whether you can freeze your senior loved one's favorite treats, can them, or store them in another way so that you will have extras on hand for a longer period of time. If your loved one is on a special diet, it could prove particularly important to ensure that you can locate needed items in an emergency.

5. Create a Network of People Who Can Help

Supply chain shortages may not always impact every area at the same time. While the New Orleans location of your shop might not have the item you need in stock, the Kenner shop might. Build a network of people who can be prepared to help you find essential items if your senior does run out, and take advantage of that network as needed.

Dealing with supply chain shortages can add stress at a time that may already be very difficult for your family. If you need help caring for a senior loved one, contact Senior Helpers Metairie today to learn more about how we can help.