Tips & Resources for Family Caregivers During the Los Angeles Wildfires

Tips and Resources for Family Caregivers During the Los Angeles Wildfires

We are absolutely devastated by the wildfires that have spread across LA County. We are sending our love and support to all who have been affected by this tragedy, and we have compiled a list of resources, tips, and emergency services to help our community during this trying time.

Please share with others, especially those who are caring for a loved one with dementia.

When Evacuating a Person Living with Dementia

Changes in routine and traveling may increase the risk of agitation and wandering for a person living with dementia.

• Be alert for any changes in mood or unexpected reactions

• Share their diagnosis with other (e.g. family members, shelter staff, hotel staff) so they can better assist

• Never leave the person living with dementia alone, always travel in a group

• Relieve anxiety and confusion by playing soothing, familiar music

Emergency Evacuation Checklist: Go Bag Essentials

• Important legal and medical documents

• Credit/debit cards and cash in small bills

• Medications for humans and pets

• Driver's license and passport

• Computer backup files & passwords

• Video inventory of home contents

• Cell phone and car chargers, battery packs

• Personal toiletries and hygiene supplies

• Comfortable clothing and tennis shoes

• Family heirlooms, photo albums, and videos

Resources:

• Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline: 800-2722-3900

• Readygov has information on what to do before, during and after a disaster

• Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-5990

• LA County Resource Hotline: 211

• Crisis Text Line offers free and anonymous mental health support: text "HOME" to 741-741

Housing:

• 211 LA and AirBnb have partnered up to provide FREE housing for those displaced from the Los Angeles wildfires: https://news.airbnb.com/airbnb-org-offers-temporary-housing-to-people-impacted-by-the-los-angeles-wildfires/

• The Queen Mary in Long Beach is offering hotel rooms as a reduced rate for fire evacuees: www.queenmary.com

• Big Bear is offering a collection of vacation homes and hotels at a discounted rate for fire evacuees: www.bigbear.com/la-county-evacuee-lodging

Evacuation Centers:

• Westwood Recreation Centers: 1350 S. Sepulveda, Los Angeles

• Pasadena Civic Auditorium: 300 E. Green St., Pasadena

• El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills

• Ritchie Valens Recreation Center: 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima

• Sepulveda Recreation Center: 8825 Kester Ave., Panorama City